BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson recently opened up about a heartwarming yet nerve-wracking Christmas memory in his book Christmas on the Farm. Despite being a devoted dog person, Adam found himself drawn into the challenge of rescuing a sickly kitten as a surprise gift for his wife Charlie and their children.
At 59, Adam balances farm life on his Gloucestershire property with his TV career. Though he and Charlie had vowed not to get another cat after losing their beloved pet Percy, one Christmas Adam’s search for the perfect present led him to a farm where a litter of kittens awaited new homes. The farmer gave Adam a chance to take a kitten if he could catch one — a task made harder by their skittish nature.
Adam finally succeeded in capturing a tiny, sneezy kitten with a bloated tummy, who seemed unlikely to survive. Despite concerns from the farmer and his own doubts, he took the vulnerable feline home, stopping to gather emergency supplies along the way.
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He presented the kitten—whom the family would later name Twiglet—to Charlie, who had mixed feelings at first. Though she loved cats, the little cat’s frail condition made her worry they were bringing new heartache to the household. Adam himself briefly regretted his decision, especially after the farm vet’s visit on the same day emphasized the kitten’s uncertain future.
But Twiglet proved resilient. She grew into a beautiful, fluffy cat and soon became the family’s favorite Christmas gift. At the time, their children Alfie and Ella were six and ten years old, and Adam felt it was the right moment to welcome a new furry family member. While Adam prefers dogs, the children adored Twiglet, who adapted well to life on the farm.
Twiglet went on to have two litters of her own, one kitten named Frank remaining part of the family. Adam, best known for his role on Countryfile after winning a national competition, continues to share his farm life stories with viewers, including upcoming festive features like Countryfile’s A Cornish Christmas.