Matt Baker is returning to his Channel 4 series Our Dream Farm this weekend – however, the TV presenter revealed that it gets “interesting” for candidates in one challenge

TV presenter Matt Baker is making a wannabe farmer’s dreams come true as his Channel 4 show returns, with seven applicants competing for the chance to run a National Trust property.

While it may get emotional, viewers can also expect some giggles when the candidates have to choose a virile ram to breed with a flock. “You see them do ram selection, where they have to make sure all the parts of the ram are working correctly. And when I say ‘health inspection’, I mean the full thing!” Matt told The Mirror in an exclusive chat. “When you put people in that situation and they’ve never handled something like that before, it gets interesting!”

The Our Dream Farm presenter admitted that he can only juggle his busy television career with running his own farm thanks to his wife Nicola and their two children.

Matt Baker’s new farming show gets interesting ( 
Image:
Steven Landles / Channel 4)

The TV star hailed his wife’s support as he juggles his farm and TV work ( 
Image:
GETTY)
“I think that’s testament to a strong family – that’s the secret,” he said. “We’re always doing something and it all culminates around the farm.

“That’s the best thing about growing up on a farm and living on a farm – you can work closely with your family. There aren’t many industries that support or promote that, but farming is one where you’re all very much at one with each other and working towards a common goal.”

Countryfile’s Matt runs his family farm in the Durham hills, having grown up rearing animals alongside his parents. However, he won’t be putting pressure on son Luke, 17, and daughter Molly, 14, to stay in the farming world.

“I don’t ever want to force my kids into doing anything,” he said. “I don’t want them to feel they have to take on that responsibility. But I think they’ll always want to live in this world in some way. They’ve lived all their life with sheep – that’s where home is.”

In the new season, seven applicants take part in a series of practical challenges with the aim of becoming the tenant of the National Trust’s 600-acre farm in Eryri, North Wales

“This is the most nature-rich farm the National Trust has in Wales,” Matt said. “The series is a practical job interview, and these candidates are an incredible bunch of people, from builders to experienced farmers, and even a mother-and-son combo.

“Through this process, the National Trust can see first hand who’s going to be the most suitable for this farm. It’s a life-changing opportunity and it’s heartbreaking when we have to say goodbye to those who’ve put their heart and soul into it.”