BBC Countryfile viewers have criticised the latest episode after a driving segment was featured. Some viewers felt that it was too similar to the popular car show Top Gear.

In the recent Sunday episode, hosts Anita Rani and Matt Baker embarked on a journey along the Hardknott and Wrynose passes in the Lake District. However, viewers argued that a programme about rural life doesn't need more cars, particularly given the current climate crisis.

The Mail Online reports that the show's chosen routes are known for being some of the most challenging roads in the country, featuring narrow, steep single tracks with breath-taking views. This includes England's deepest lake, Wast Water, where Rani joined a group of local wild swimmers.

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As Anita took the wheel, the hosts discussed the car's features and its performance. Despite the peaceful setting, viewers were left disgruntled and took to social media to express their frustration.

One viewer said: "Promoting non-essential driving over the Lake District passes! WTAF?". Another person said: "Just what the Lake District doesn't need #countryfile is a load more cars. Why not encourage people to use the buses (and trains) that local people rely on and keep them going...."

A third added: "Why is she driving so fast up in a shoebox #countryfile Stop yabbering to the camera, that's what causes accidents Not concentrating on the job in hand".

Another person echoed: "#Countryfile, which regularly highlights climate change issues, dedicated a significant portion of an episode to promoting road trips in the Lake District on some of the most narrow and congested roads".

This isn't the first time that viewers have expressed their dissatisfaction with recent episodes of Countryfile. Last month, an episode focusing on dentistry drew criticism from the audience.

The segment aimed to shed light on the difficulties faced by residents in the Devon and Cornwall countryside in accessing NHS dental services.

Many viewers were puzzled by the decision to dedicate an entire episode to this issue, arguing that it is a nationwide problem and questioning why the show didn't concentrate on farming or wildlife instead.

Nevertheless, the BBC responded by highlighting their commitment to covering 'a broad spectrum of rural affairs and issues impacting rural communities'.

They added: "In this particular programme, Countryfile explored the severe shortage of NHS dental care in Devon and Cornwall. While acknowledging that this is indeed a national issue, the episode chose to focus on the experiences of those living in the countryside.

"Previously the programme has produced diverse films including shortfalls in Special Education Needs provision and the difficulties recruiting Midwifery staff in rural areas".

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