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Countryfile launches festival

‘Countryfile’ has launched its own festival.
The rural show will hold a four-day spectacle, called Countryfile Live, from August 4 to 7 at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, central England, following the popularity of the programme, which has run for 28 years.
Fans will get the chance to rub shoulders with their favourite presenters, John Craven, Matt Baker, Adam Henson, Ellie Harrison, Tom Heap and Anita Rani, and enjoy live talks, take in animal displays and check out some real farming action.
John – who has fronted the show since 1989 – said: "I’ve been involved in the show for a quarter of a century, and we’ve never done anything like this before.
"You can meet the presenters, see hundreds of stalls, and have a go at lots of things. It’ll be a country show like no other."
Anita added: "You’ll see everything from agricultural machinery to environmental areas, to food, arts and outdoor pursuits. Anything that is to do with the country will be celebrated in the glorious shadow of beautiful Blenheim Palace."
The show’s supporters will be able to take in a spectacular live show in the 4,000-capacity Countryfile Live Main Arena, while they can check out debates at The National Trust theatre, or meet some rare breeds as Adam brings his farm to the Palace.
What’s more, there will also be plenty of family entertainment on show, such as a Tug-of-War, Morris dancing, Punch-and-Judy, village cricket, a vintage Funfair and a village fete, plus more than 500 exhibitors.
‘Countryfile’ was moved to from its usual Sunday morning slot to Sunday evenings in April 2009 due to its increased popularity.
A spin-off show, ‘Countryfile Diaries’, launched on weekdays in March and is presented by John, Paul Martin, Jules Hudson and Keeley Donovan.
Countryfile Live tickets are priced at £13.20 for children and £26.40 for adults. Family tickets are also available for £72.60