THE BBC has hit back at fuming Countryfile fans who complained about a recent episode after it highlighted health issues faced by rural communities around the nation.
Charlotte Smith and Sean Fletcher explored the stunning Marlborough Downs in North Wessex, known for its chalk grasslands, ancient woods, and unique streams.
Countryfile viewers also witnessed Datshiane Navanayagam head off to Devon and Cornwall to underline the hardships rural residents faced when trying to access NHS dentists.
According to the BBC's latest report, the dentistry segment, which aired on March 17, sparked a furious backlash from viewers.
The Beeb acknowledged at the time of the complaints: "We received complaints from people who felt that the item on dentistry was not suitable for Countryfile."
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However, the broadcaster defended itself and clarified that it covers a "wide range of rural affairs issues affecting rural areas and communities".
Replying to Countryfile fans in a statement, they penned: "In this programme, Countryfile investigated the lack of NHS dentistry provision in Devon and Cornwall.
“Our film acknowledged this is a national problem but focused on the stories of those living in rural areas.
"Previously the programme has produced diverse films including shortfalls in Special Education Needs provision and the difficulties recruiting Midwifery staff in rural areas."
After the episode first aired, viewers took to social media and complained about the dentistry segment, which they felt didn't belong in the BBC programme.
Taking to X(Twitter), one baffled user wrote: "Countryfile. Dentists? Am I missing something?".
"What have NHS Dentists got to do with The Countryside? More irrelevant guff to pad out #countryfile" quizzed another.
A third bewildered fan penned: "#Countryfile What has lack of dentists got to do with countryside matters? Is this Panorama or Countryfile? My favourite Sunday evening relaxation show ruined."
However, not all Countryfile viewers had the same complaint, as many took to the social media app and defended the segment as one user typed: "The people complaining that #Countryfile is covering problems in the... erm countryside about dentists."
They added: "Moaning they just want to see nice things about cows and sheep people live here, you know. It's not just for your holiday and to see pretty things."
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Another viewer agreed: "I do think they deserve a dentist, nice one, Countryfile keep on giving us the reality and not the glossy lives of living in the farming community, I'm on your side."
"It's called Countryfile - the clue is in the name... it's not just about nature... it's about the countryside where people who live and work (some of whom need dentists)," echoed a third
Elsewhere on Countryfile, viewers expressed their concern after spotting a small mark on Adam Henson’s face.
Countryfile is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
