Veteran BBC presenter John Craven has shared his admiration for Princess Catherine after she completed the demanding Three Peaks Challenge. At the same time, he is preparing to lace up his boots for the 12th annual BBC Children in Need Countryfile Ramble.
The 86-year-old journalist is a beloved fixture of rural television on BBC’s Countryfile and formerly as the host of Newsround. He spoke warmly about the Princess of Wales’s endurance. In June, Princess Catherine won national praise after revealing she quietly completed the Three Peaks Challenge, scaling the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales within a strict 24-hour window.
John Craven Praises Princess Kate’s Determination
Speaking about the royal accomplishment, John Craven described the feat as fantastic. He noted that it required grit, physical stamina, and collaboration. “Taking on a challenge like that requires determination, resilience and a real sense of teamwork,” Craven said. He added that the royal’s endeavor highlighted the mental and physical health benefits of spending time in nature.
“I believe that if, after admiring public figures like the Princess taking on outdoor challenges or after simply watching Countryfile, people of all ages are motivated to pull on their boots and head out into the countryside, then that’s a wonderful outcome,” he noted.
Craven is no stranger to royal involvement in environmental matters. In 2013, he teamed up with then-Prince Charles for a special 25th-anniversary edition of Countryfile. The future King served as guest editor at Highgrove to discuss organic farming, hedge-laying, and the realities facing hill farmers.
Preparing for the 12th Annual Countryfile Ramble
Turning his focus to charity work, Craven is once again gearing up to participate in the Countryfile Ramble for BBC Children in Need. Alongside fellow presenters Matt Baker, Anita Rani, Margherita Taylor, and Joe Crowley, Craven will walk through the picturesque Peak District. This year’s event highlights the transformational power of local youth work. It shines a light on safe, inclusive spaces funded by grants like the £43,232 awarded to the Lindley Educational Trust over three years.
Craven recalled his long history with the charity, noting, “I was in the studio with Terry Wogan and Sue Cook for the very first BBC Children in Need programme – my job was to read out how to make a donation. I’ve been involved with the charity ever since, and have seen first-hand the extraordinary difference that support can make.”
Shining a Light on Inspirational Young People
This year’s ramble features several remarkable children and teenagers overcoming immense adversity:
- Matt Baker walks alongside Jay and Aine, supported by the Northern Ireland Children’s Hos**ce sibling support group after their brother was born with Cri du Chat syndrome.
- Joe Crowley teams up with Tadiwa, who survived an inoperable brain tumour diagnosed at 18 months old and now finds independence through sailing with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.
- Anita Rani joins Grace, who developed quadriplegic cerebral palsy and deafness at five days old and participates via the Seashell Trust’s CADS holiday programme.
- Margherita Taylor walks with Bethan, a three-time cancer survivor supported by Team Jak.
Since its inception in 2015, the Countryfile Ramble has raised over £17.4 million for BBC Children in Need. The 2026 Countryfile Ramble airs on BBC One on Sunday, 25 October, bringing viewers along for the muddy tracks, heartfelt stories, and shared camaraderie.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 Countryfile Ramble air?
The Countryfile Ramble for BBC Children in Need broadcasts on Sunday, 25 October, on BBC One.
How much money has the Countryfile Ramble raised to date?
Since launching in 2015, the annual ramble has successfully raised over £17.4 million to support vulnerable children and young people across the UK.
Which presenters are taking part in the Peak District walk?
Veteran presenter John Craven is joined by colleagues Matt Baker, Anita Rani, Margherita Taylor, and Joe Crowley.
What did John Craven say about Princess Kate?
John Craven praised Princess Catherine’s completion of the Three Peaks Challenge as a “fantastic achievement” that demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and the physical and mental benefits of being outdoors.
How can viewers support BBC Children in Need through the show?
Viewers can purchase the official Countryfile Bobble Hat, where 29% of the retail price goes directly to BBC Children in Need, or donate directly via the official BBC Pudsey website.
