Adam Henson, the familiar face of BBC’s Countryfile for over 20 years, recently opened up about a missed opportunity that could have significantly boosted his fortunes. The 60-year-old presenter, who has been part of the show since 2001, also runs Bemborough Farm and the popular Cotswold Farm Park alongside his business partner Duncan Andrews—a venture they took over from Adam’s father in 1998.
The farm hosts more than 50 rare breed animals, but it was a chance to acquire the Swiss Valais Blacknose sheep that Adam regrets missing. While filming in Switzerland for Countryfile, he witnessed the unique sheep being brought down from mountain pastures amid traditional celebrations, including yodelling and local festivities.
Adam shared on the Talking Farming podcast: “I told the producer, ‘I really ought to get some of these animals, they’re beautiful.’ But being busy and slow to act, I never did. Others in the UK snapped them up, and they’ve become incredibly popular and valuable. I completely missed a trick.” He admitted, “I could have made myself wealthy but I missed it.”
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The Valais Blacknose sheep, with their distinctive black noses and ears and tail spots on females, are highly prized. In the UK, prices usually range between £800 and £1,000, with pedigree ewes sometimes fetching up to £10,000 at auction. Originally raised for meat and fleece, their charming looks have made them a favorite among hobby farmers.
Adam revealed his personal preference for the Cotswold sheep, native to his local rolling hills. “The Cotswold breed is special to me,” he said. “The area is named after them—the ‘cot’ meaning enclosure and ‘wold’ meaning a rolling hill. This region was famous for its wool production from Cotswold sheep, so they hold a special place in my heart.”
Fans can catch Adam on Countryfile this evening (10 May) at 6 pm as he joins Charlotte Smith at Oswestry Livestock Market. Together, they’ll explore one of the region’s largest markets during its busiest spring trading period, showcasing how it remains a vital hub for farmers despite challenges faced by similar venues nationwide.