Countryfile presenter and farmer Adam Henson has opened up about a moment of festive doubt, fearing he had invited 'heartache' into his family home with an unexpected Christmas gift. The 59-year-old television personality, a mainstay on the BBC's rural affairs programme, made the revelation in his book, Christmas on the Farm, recounting a poignant holiday memory.
A Desperate Search for the Perfect Present
Adam explained that he was struggling to find an ideal gift for his wife, Charlie. His search led him to a farm where the owner was attempting to sell a litter of kittens. This presented a dilemma for the Henson family, who had vowed never to get another cat following the painful loss of their beloved pet, Percy.
'Desperate as I was for a present for Charlie, these kittens seemed a good idea,' Adam shared. The farmer agreed to let him take one, but on one condition: Adam had to catch it himself. After some effort, as the kittens 'weren't about to allow themselves' to be caught, he finally managed to secure one.
The Sneezy, Sad Spectacle of a Kitten
Adam's initial success quickly turned to concern. He soon realised why this particular kitten had been easier to capture. 'She was sneezy and her little tummy was bloated; she was a sad spectacle,' he wrote. The farmer himself expressed worry, suggesting the tiny feline 'doesn't look as if it's going to survive'.
Despite the clear health issues, Adam decided to bring the kitten home, stopping on the way for emergency supplies. He presented the sickly animal to Charlie, admitting he could never have kept it hidden and that it would require serious 'TLC'. 'It's fair to say Charlie had mixed feelings,' Adam confessed.
'Much as she loves cats, she was worried about this sad, sneezy little specimen - I'd potentially brought home a lot of heartache for her and the kids,' he added. The couple are parents to two grown-up children, Alfie and Ella, who were aged six and ten at the time of the story.
From Regret to a Favourite Family Member
Adam admits he even began to 'regret' his impulsive decision, especially when the farm vet came to examine the kitten later that day. The little cat faced an 'uncertain' start to life. However, against the odds, she 'grew into a beautiful, fluffy cat', whom the family named Twiglet.
What began as a potential source of sorrow turned into immense joy. Despite describing himself as a 'dog person', Adam says Twiglet became the family's 'favourite Christmas present'. He believes it was the 'right time' for a new family addition. The children 'loved her to bits' and the pet adapted wonderfully to life on the family's Gloucestershire farm.
In a delightful turn, Twiglet went on to have two litters of kittens herself. One of her offspring, a cat named Frank, remained with the Hensons. Adam, who runs the Cotswold Farm Park, rose to national fame after securing his presenting role on Countryfile following a nationwide search.
Fans can see more of Adam Henson on Countryfile's A Cornish Christmas, airing from 5.05pm today (December 21) on BBC One. He will be joining co-presenters Matt Baker and Anita Rani to explore festive traditions in the fishing village of Cadgwith.
