Harriet Cowan, the community nurse turned farmer who shot to fame on Amazon Prime Video's Clarkson's Farm, has shared a tongue-in-cheek wish for Keir Starmer after the former Prime Minister announced his resignation. In a TikTok video, Cowan expressed her hope that Starmer's removal men would drop his plates as he moves out of No. 10 Downing Street.
Starmer's Resignation and the Farming Community's Reaction
Keir Starmer, 63, announced his intention to step down as Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party on June 22. He will remain in both roles until a successor is elected, with nominations opening on July 9 and the process expected to conclude before the summer parliamentary recess. The announcement has drawn reactions from across the political spectrum, but perhaps none as blunt as Cowan's.
In her video, Cowan filmed herself working on a farm with text overlaying the clip: 'Bye bye Keir, hope your removal men drop your plates.' The post has amassed over 3,000 likes and nearly 30 comments, with many users responding with laughing emojis and calling the joke 'brilliant.' Some commenters shared Cowan's sentiment, wishing mild misfortune on the departing politician.
Background: Farmers' Protests and Tax Raids
The joke reflects ongoing tensions between Starmer's government and the farming community. Last year, hundreds of farmers protested in Whitehall, taking their grievances directly to Starmer's doorstep. They voiced concerns over extreme weather, profitability issues, and changes to funding, as well as Rachel Reeves's tax raid on agricultural businesses. Although Starmer eventually performed a U-turn on the levy before stepping down, many farmers, including Cowan, remain disgruntled.
Harriet Cowan: From Nurse to TV Star
Harriet Cowan rose to prominence after appearing on Clarkson's Farm, where she temporarily replaced farm manager Kaleb Cooper during his speaking tour. Viewers quickly warmed to her expertise, sharp wit, and straightforward manner. Beyond the show, Cowan has become an advocate for challenging stereotypes about farmers, particularly women in agriculture.
In a previous interview with BBC Breakfast News, Cowan addressed preconceived notions about farmers, stating: 'Just because I'm a small blonde who likes to curl her hair and wear make-up, and things like that, doesn't mean I can't be a farmer. For me, it's really important. I think it's just changing that stereotype of being a farmer and what a farmer is. But, I'm definitely still going to farm, you're never getting me off this place!'
Cowan has also used social media to call out trolls who criticise her for wearing makeup while working on the farm. Her candid and unapologetic approach has earned her a loyal following.
Life After Fame
Since appearing on the show, Cowan has experienced recognition in public, which she finds surprising. 'I'm shocked because I didn't realise so many people are interested in me and what I do day to day. I've never really thought of it as anything exciting. It's just my little life,' she confessed. Despite her newfound fame, she maintains a down-to-earth lifestyle: 'I get up and farm, go to work, come back and farm. Even walking down the street and seeing people, they'll recognise us. It's absolutely crazy.'
Cowan's joke about Starmer's moving mishaps has further endeared her to fans, cementing her reputation as a no-nonsense farmer who speaks her mind.
