Countryfile host Adam Henson recently shared a touching story about honoring his late father’s final wishes. When not appearing on the popular BBC program, Adam is busy managing his farm or advocating for agriculture.
Adam’s passion for farming was instilled in him by his father, Joe, who established Cotswold Farm Park in 1971 when Adam was just six years old. Today, the Gloucestershire farm attracts approximately 100,000 visitors annually and is home to 50 rare sheep breeds.
In 1999, at the age of 60, Adam took over the farm from Joe along with his business partner Duncan Andrews. Besides the rare sheep breeds, the 650-hectare estate houses various other farm animals.
Following a battle with cancer, Joe, whom Adam described as his “rock, mentor, and hero,” passed away in 2015. During a podcast at Cannon Hall Farm, Adam disclosed fulfilling a special request from his father before his passing.
Adam recounted, “My father wished for a lock of wool to be placed in his hand upon his death, a tradition believed to aid shepherds in gaining entry to the afterlife for their dedication to their flocks. I honored his request by placing a lock of Cotswold wool from my favorite ewe in his hand inside his woolen coffin.”
Reflecting on his bond with his father, Adam expressed, “Losing a parent is a profound loss for anyone, but my connection with Dad was exceptional. He was my guiding light in farming and television from the beginning.”
In a 2019 interview with The Mirror, Adam admitted to seeing similarities between himself and his father, which he views positively. He emphasized the importance of learning from experiences and setting high standards for oneself, encouraging his children to do the same.
Since joining Countryfile in 2001 through a nationwide presenter search, Adam has been a consistent presence on the show. He has also featured on programs like Countryfile Summer Diaries, Inside Out, BBC Radio 4’s On Your Farm, and Farming Today.
Tonight at 6 pm on BBC One, Adam will return to screens with Countryfile. Alongside Sammi Kinghorn, he will explore the Vale of Evesham, renowned for its fertile soil and favorable micro-climate conducive to agriculture. The episode will also delve into challenges faced by dairy farmers due to declining milk prices.