During the latest episode of BBC’s beloved show Countryfile, presenter Sammi Kinghorn made a heartfelt confession — she felt “ashamed.”
The episode aired on Sunday evening, 1 March, and focused on the kickoff of the salmon-fishing season on the River Tweed. Alongside co-presenter Matt Baker, Sammi explored the preparations taking place, meeting the boatmen returning after their winter break and watching craftsmen handcraft fishing rods and weave tweed nearby.
The location struck a deeply personal chord for Sammi, who grew up in the surrounding area. “It’s very close to my heart. I was brought up really close to here,” she shared. Matt responded warmly, “Honestly, you are so fortunate to have grown up with a landscape like this!”
READ MORE: Robbie Savage Reflects on Forest Green Rovers' Confidence-Boosting Win Against Gateshead
READ MORE: Cheltenham Pubs Extend Hours to Serve Breakfast and Pints During Festival Week
Despite her local roots and familiarity with the rivers, Sammi made a surprising admission: “I’m ashamed to admit that, even though I’m a local and I know about these rivers, I know very little about fishing and even less about how to make a fishing rod.”
In pursuit of learning more, Sammi visited Neil Fox, a skilled fly fisherman who handcrafts fishing rods at his historic tweed mill by the river. Under Neil’s expert guidance, she tried her hand at making her own rod, immersing herself in this traditional craft.
Sammi Kinghorn, who joined Countryfile in 2023, has quickly captured the hearts of viewers nationwide. Beyond her broadcasting career, she is a world champion wheelchair racer. Raised on a Scottish farm with her parents Neil and Elaine and her sibling, Sammi’s upbringing was rich with rural experiences.
However, she has openly recounted a life-changing event from her youth. At 14, she suffered a severe spinal injury from an accident involving a forklift driven by her father. Sammi described the terrifying moment when she realized she was trapped and in pain, ultimately losing sensation in her legs.
Sammi’s candid reflections offer a powerful glimpse into her personal journey, adding depth to her role on Countryfile and connecting with audiences on a profoundly human level.