Field of dreams!
Matt Baker on hosting a new Apprentice-style competition for wannabe tenant farmers… OUR DREAM FARM WITH MATT BAKER Saturday, 8pm, C4 Factual
Q How did this show, in which people compete to win a farm tenancy, come about?
A I wanted to shine a light on the tenant-farming system, as there are so many people who want to farm, but can’t afford to buy their own farms. Q What happens in the series? A It’s like a very practical job interview, in which the owners of the farm, the National Trust, get to see how suited the applicants are for the 10-year tenancy they are offering on a Northumberland farm. Q What sort of people are competing to win? A One young couple had sold their house before the whole selection process started, so they were all in, 100%! There’s also a 22-year-old lad who grew up on the estate that the farm is part of, a couple who are wildlife experts and a local auctioneer, as well as a vet and a farm consultant. Q What tasks do the applicants undertake? A First, we brought in a flock of ewes that were ready to lamb. The applicants also had to prepare for the release of beavers on the land.
Q You grew up on a farm. How involved are you in farming on a day-to-day basis?
A I’ve never left the family farm. I’ve only ever lived six months of my life without a flock of sheep!
Q Does this series have the cut-throat competition element of other reality shows?
A These are real people with real [business] ideas that have to be viable. There was no infighting, but it was really emotional, because they are putting their lives on the line, and all their hopes and dreams are poured into this.
It’s more like The Apprentice than Strictly Come Farming!