Countryfile viewers were divided over Sunday's episode, which focused on selecting the 12 winners of the Countryfile Photographic Competition. The winning entries will feature in a charity calendar supporting Children in Need.
During the show, John Craven, Charlotte Smith and zoologist Megan McCubbin gathered at WWT Slimbridge in Gloucestershire to narrow down thousands of submissions to just 12. Host John, 86, described the decision-making as a "crucial" moment, with the presenters admitting the task proved "so much harder" than expected as they weighed up each photograph.
Charity calendar takes centre stage
The episode dedicated the bulk of its airtime to the calendar, which this year carries the theme Signs of the Seasons. Last year's calendar raised £2.3 million, contributing to transforming the lives of young people across the UK.
After the final 12 entries were selected, John announced: "You can find a full list of all the photos we've chosen today and how to vote for them on the Countryfile website." He added: "Now all that's left is for you, our viewers, to decide the overall winner. The photo that will feature on the calendar's cover. The vote is now open!"
Mixed reactions from viewers
Viewers took to social media to share their thoughts, with some criticising the calendar's prominence in the episode. One person wrote: "Photo klaxon #countryfile!" while another commented: "Calendar updates on #countryfile till late February!"
Another viewer joked that the competition signals the arrival of Christmas, posting: "Do I have to get the tree down from the attic #countryfile." A further viewer wrote: "Had enough of this photo competition #countryfile!" while another added: "Here we go again, the (ridiculously early) calendar competition!"
Positive responses too
However, not all viewers shared the same sentiment, with many enthusiastically celebrating their favourite photographs. One person remarked: "#countryfile Red Alert very nice" while another enthused: "I love the bluebells photo. #countryfile!"
Countryfile airs on Sundays at 6pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
