Former Emmerdale and Strictly Come Dancing favourite Kelvin Fletcher has sparked concern after revealing a painful injury sustained during a charity rugby match, putting his participation in a major upcoming agricultural show in doubt.
A Painful Turn on the Rugby Pitch
The incident occurred while the 41-year-old was filming for the hit ITV series Fletchers' Family Farm. In an episode that aired on Sunday, November 16, Fletcher documented his involvement in a local rugby tournament organised to raise funds for the David Lewis Centre, a charity for which he serves as an ambassador.
Despite recruiting what he described as "world class" rugby talents Gareth Ellis, Mark Flanagan, and Danny McGuire for his 'Farmyard Flyers' team, Fletcher's own sporting prowess was questioned. Team captain Flanagan initially benched the actor, joking to ITV viewers that Fletcher "doesn't really know what he's doing" when it comes to rugby.
Fletcher eventually took to the field, but a clip showed him being forcefully tackled. He was heard laughing it off at the time, stating, "I got pummelled good there, didn't I?" However, the aftermath was no laughing matter.
The Aftermath and Biggest Concern
The actor-farmer soon shared his worry about a significant injury. "A little injury. I'm hoping, fingers crossed I've not, but it feels like I've torn my bicep," he confessed. The timing of the injury could not have been worse, as it immediately cast a shadow over his preparations for the prestigious Royal Cheshire Show.
Throughout the same episode, Fletcher had been discussing his plans to showcase his prized Lincoln Red cows at the event. His wife, Liz, immediately pinpointed the potential problem, asking him if he would still be able to lead the cow. Fletcher admitted, "That's what I'm worried about."
Liz elaborated in a separate interview, expressing her concern that the injury was to the very arm he uses to lead the cattle. Her primary focus was practical: "I want to make sure he can lead the cow... we're going to have to get him strapped up and make sure he's alright."
Race Against the Clock
Despite his team coming fifth out of six in the tournament, Fletcher remained in good spirits, jokingly asking for directions to the "nearest A&E" in a chirpy voiceover. Yet, his tone turned serious as he confided in the camera, revealing his true priority.
"My biggest concern now is getting fit for the Cheshire show for cow duties," he stated, leaving viewers wondering if the former Strictly champion would recover in time for his farming responsibilities. The question of whether Kelvin Fletcher will be able to participate in the Royal Cheshire Show now hangs in the balance as he races to recover.
Fletchers' Family Farm continues every Sunday at 11.30am on ITV.
