Countryfile presenter John Craven, who has been a staple on the BBC programme for decades, has made a heartfelt revelation about his final wishes. During an episode of the long-running show, the 86-year-old took viewers to some of Yorkshire's most popular locations.
As he explored the county, calling parts of it a 'hidden gem', John highlighted his intimate knowledge of Yorkshire, the county where he was born. While he currently lives in a quiet village in Oxfordshire with his wife, the Countryfile star confessed that he wants his final resting place to be where he grew up.
His final wish
In 2019, he admitted to The Yorkshire Post: "Still one of my favourite places in the world is Wharfedale and Otley Chevin, where I used to cycle with my mates.
"I love the coast too, especially Whitby, though we had family holidays in Bridlington because I suspect it was a bit cheaper.
"I'd like to come home and have my ashes scattered in Yorkshire, maybe on the top of Otley Chevin."
Although he no longer lives in the county, the BBC star often goes back to visit, either for segments of Countryfile or to see family connections.
A long career on screen
The BBC star has been a staple on Countryfile since 1989. Despite this, he was once widely recognised for presenting the children's news show Newsround for 17 years from 1972.
With a TV career spanning over 40 years, it looks as though the fan-favourite has no plans on retiring anytime soon, as he told BBC's The One Show he's 'still useful'.
During one segment, artist Adebanji Alade asked if John thinks of himself as the living legend everyone sees him as. He replied: "I don't really like being called a legend because, yeah, I'm getting on a bit, but I still feel quite useful."
Why viewers keep watching
When asked why he thinks he continues to remain so popular with viewers over the years, John admitted it was due to people feeling as though they know him. He added: "I think it's because I'm regarded as almost a friend. To this day, people come up to me and say, 'Thank you for being part of my childhood. Thanks for telling me what was happening in the world."
Countryfile is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
