Countryfile

Isle of Wight (26x44)

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Countryfile is on the Isle of Wight, where Matt Baker takes a stroll along the oldest pier in the UK - Ryde Pier. He finds out about its fascinating history and the important role it played in the rise of the seaside holiday. He also hops on board a boat to get his hands dirty helping with the pier's ongoing restoration project, working against the clock as the tide rolls in. Ellie Harrison explores the science behind the idea that a breath of fresh air is good for you, and she visits Osborne House, Queen Victoria's magnificent Isle of Wight home. She discovers Prince Albert's love for horticulture and, in particular, the trees which he planted throughout the gardens to celebrate special family occasions. Ellie also heads to Victoria and Albert's private beach, where Queen Victoria took her very first plunge into the salty depths. Former farmer and trained butcher Gareth Barlow teaches the younger generation about the virtues of eating beef. He also meets the woman who's on a campaign for people to eat beef in the week. Ahead of Remembrance Day, Adam Henson meets a young farmer putting his own take on the time-honoured classic, the poppy. And Tom Heap investigates claims that current education reforms could put school farms under threat.