BBC Local Radio has announced the return of Farmwatch this month, featuring a first-of-its-kind collaboration with BBC Radio 4's iconic soap opera The Archers. For the first time, all 39 BBC Local stations will simultaneously broadcast the specially written episode of the world's longest-running continuing drama on July 30 to celebrate British rural life.
Unique Features of Farmwatch Day
Audiences can experience farming in real time through a new 'Mooscast' – a live audio stream of cows walking from the field to the milking parlour. Presenters from BBC Local Radio will take part in a Farm Swap, getting stuck into life and work on farms across their local areas. To conclude the day, Clarkson's Farm star Harriet Cowan and beef and arable farmer Joe Seels will host an all-England evening show across all 39 stations.
Focus on Cost of Living
This year, BBC Local will highlight the cost of living and the rising cost of food. A special 'Burgerflation' investigation will examine what it costs a family to enjoy a summer BBQ.
Quotes from BBC Leaders
Jeremy Howe, Editor of The Archers, said: "The Archers is the world’s longest-running continuing drama and has always celebrated farming and life in rural England, ever since it began 75 years ago. We are delighted to join up with BBC Local Radio’s epic Farmwatch Day. For the first time ever, BBC Local Radio will join with BBC Radio 4 and simultaneously broadcast this evening’s [30th July’s] specially written episode of The Archers across all thirty-nine local radio stations in a wonderful coming together of One BBC to celebrate life in rural Britain."
Chris Burns, Head of Local Audio Commissioning, said: "BBC Farmwatch is a celebration of all things the people, farming, the passion and the vital role farming plays in all our lives. BBC Local is uniquely placed to deliver Farmwatch and we look forward to bringing these authentic stories to our listeners."
