Countryfile host apologises after breaking BBC show's 'number one rule'

Countryfile's John Craven had to apologise as he forgot an important item during one segment of the BBC show.

The veteran television host explored Yorkshire's heritage in the latest installment, which aired on Sunday evening (August 17) and explored the history shaped by the River Nidd.

John visited the river localed in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, where he met Adrian Sturdy, who works to help keep the waters clean.

Introducing the show's guest, John explained: "Away from his job in digital communications, he's a conservationist and member of the Nidd Action Group, an organisation set up by local people to protect the health of the river."

As Adrian worked in the river he explained his role: "I'm doing some kick sampling for the riverfly in the water."

He later explained that this helps to kick up all of the flies and larvae that live on the river base as John looked on.

This sparked a confession from John, who said, "Well, I'm sorry I can't help you. I've broken the number one Countryfile rule and I haven't brought my wellies with me."

John asked Adrian what the purpose of his task in the river was, and Adrian explained that it was to understand the water quality of the River Nidd.

John then helped Adrian to sort through the sample of creatures taken from the river including mayfly, which only live in quality water.

John said: "The fact that your finding mayflies here is a good indicator", as Adrian explained how the fish and birds feed on the creatures living in the river.

But the host then shared: "Although the river maybe filled with life there is another side to this story.

"The Nidd's water quality has come under the spotlight in recent years with sewage, farm runoff, and even old metal mines polluting the river.

"It's left many locals worried, especially with harmful bacteria like E.coli turning up in the water."

Countryfile airs on BBC One and iPlayer