In his 2023 book, Christmas On The Farm, BBC star Adam Henson shares an amusing anecdote about the confusion caused by his wife Charlie’s vegetarianism.
The Countryfile presenter and Cotswold Farm Park owner recalls how Charlie was initially a vegan at the start of their relationship, a concept his mother didn’t fully grasp.
He recounts one Christmas when his mum gifted Charlie a leather jacket, leading to an awkward moment. “I remember biting my lip to try to stop myself from laughing as we sat there in the living room on Christmas morning, but Charlie has always been very honest.
“She quickly confessed to Mum: ‘I’m so sorry, Gill, but I’ll never wear it…” Adam’s mum took no offence, but he admits others find it “strange” that Charlie is a vegetarian, given she’s married to a farmer who breeds sheep and cattle for meat.
At home, their daughter Ella is also vegetarian, while son Alfie and Adam are big meat eaters. “Charlie is happy to cook meat for those who want it, she simply chooses not to eat it, which leads to some really grown-up conversations around farming systems and animal welfare.”
Despite their differing views on eating meat, Adam respects his wife’s stance and reveals she often “challenges” him on related topics.
He shared with readers: “Charlie will occasionally challenge me about how we are managing certain animals, and it’s good to hear another voice. I’ve always had the greatest respect for her views.”
He also revealed that conversations with Charlie have led him to consider the potential increase in vegetarians and vegans in the future, and how it could impact the farming industry.
He added: “We can still feed the meat eaters. I am very sympathetic to farmers who are keen to preserve their livestock, because I feel the same way, and I love to see farm fields with sheep and cattle.
“But I also believe we have to live in the real world, and if that changes, we must also change.”