Ellie Harrison, Countryfile’s final ever episode, confessed she was ‘heartbroken’ after seeing kind notes from her co-stars.
The TV host announced her departure from the BBC series after 13 years in October of this year.
The 46-year-old, who has been on the programme since 2009, revealed that she was departing to focus on her family, which includes her husband Matthew Goodman and their three children, to expand her company, and to pursue her “creative calling.”
‘I’ll miss the people, places and stories,’ she said in her announcement at the time, adding: ‘It has been a decision I’ve drawn out, such is the bond with the programme, and boy will I miss the geography field trips. But like all endings, I’ll take all the lessons from these days forward with me on my journey.’
On Sunday, December 3, her final edition of Countryfile aired.
Near the end of the show, co-host Anita Rani revealed that other series stars had shot surprise messages to honour Ellie before her departure.
Matt Baker shared: ‘Ellie, I’m sending you this message with lots of love to say how much I’m going to miss presenting Countryfile alongside you. I will never forget our first show together.’
Former Strictly Come Dancing champion Hamza Yassin also made an appearance, giving tribute to the skills he learned from his time with his co-star.
‘Hi Ellie. My fondest memory with you was my first time ever presenting with Countryfile. Believe it or not, it was with you,’ Hamza said, as Ellie gazed adoringly at the iPad on which the video was playing.
‘I was super nervous and you put me straight at ease. Ever since that day, I’ve taken the tips that you’ve given me, so thank you so much. I’m sure this won’t be the last time we’ll see you, but good luck in the future,’ he said.
‘Oh gorgeous Hamza, oh!’ Ellie exclaimed in response.
‘Stop it! Aw, I feel a bit heartbroken,’ she admitted.
Sitting beside her, Anita told Ellie that she was going to miss her a ‘huge amount’, stating: ‘You have been amazing to work with.’
The broadcast then concluded with Ellie informing viewers about the upcoming episode on Sunday evening.
Plenty of Countryfile fans paid tribute to her after her final episode, with one writing on X (formerly Twitter): ‘I am really sorry to see that Ellie Harrison is leaving Countryfile. Good luck in whatever you do in the future, and I hope we continue to see you on our screens. ❤️.’
‘Best wishes to the fabulous Ellie Harrison. You’ll be greatly missed on Countryfile. We hope to see you soon on some other adventure Ellie.❤️,’ another said.
Countryfile is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.