BBC Countryfile viewers were left unimpressed as the show dedicated an episode to The Archers, with one person spotting a huge blunder as they took to social media.
During the latest episode of BBC’s Countryfile, Matt Baker and Charlotte Smith ventured to a charming Worcestershire village called Inkberrow.
The location served as inspiration for the enduring BBC radio soap, The Archers, which launched in the 1950s and is based in the fictional village of Ambridge.
From the programme’s opening, it was evident Charlotte was absolutely thrilled with the special episode, as her co-presenter Matt, who recently provided fans with an update, revealed she’s a devoted follower.
Whilst seated outdoors at a pub clutching two pints, Matt informed viewers: “Oh, we’re making Charlotte’s dreams come true today!”
Following a celebratory toast with their beverages, Charlotte responded: “Now, for me, we are in the centre of the known fictional universe, the Bull at Ambridge.”
Matt continued: “This is home to the Archers and Charlotte is a massive fan.”
Throughout the programme, the BBC presenter revealed to audiences she’s been following the radio soap for 30 years and adores it, reports the Express.
She continued: “I’m not alone! Millions of people tune in every day for agricultural escapism.”
As the show progressed, Charlotte chose to attempt cricket, one of the primary sports featured within the BBC radio soap.
Donning a jersey from the fictional village squad, it appeared the BBC presenter astonished herself, having never participated in the sport previously.
Following her admission that she’d never wielded a bat before, Charlotte remarked: “I think I might be taking up cricket!”
As the episode concluded, she informed viewers that they could tune into BBC Radio 4 to listen to The Archers, featuring a familiar voice, as she was making an appearance in the episode.
However, it didn’t take long for viewers to share their thoughts on the episode, with one eagle-eyed fan spotting a significant scheduling error.
Taking to social media, they penned: “So #Countryfile have an #thearchers themed episode tonight, which is a lovely idea. However it doesn’t finish until 7.15pm so clashes with an actual episode of The Archers! I wish someone at the BBC had thought about the scheduling a bit more.”
One disgruntled viewer remarked: “BBC #countryfile promoting BBC #thearchers – you couldn’t make it up.”
Another chimed in: “I think I’d rather watch a repeat of the episode where they discuss photographs.”
Another viewer added: “#Countryfile really needs to take a break and come up with some relevant material @bbcone.”
Countryfile can be viewed on BBC iPlayer.