Reuben Owen has marked a major step forward in his relationship with girlfriend Jess during a festive episode of his Channel 5 series Reuben Owen: Christmas in the Dales, leaving viewers smiling at the couple’s growing bond.

The 21-year-old farmer, who first found fame on Our Yorkshire Farm, shared several intimate moments with Jess as the pair prepared to spend their first Christmas together — a milestone that comes just over a year after they began dating. The episode showed Reuben organising a Christmas party at Jess’ family farm as a heartfelt thank-you to the friends and relatives who have supported them throughout the year.

Family games

Before the celebrations could begin, Reuben, alongside his colleagues Sonny and Capper and Jess’ father David, faced a demanding barn renovation that had to be completed in time for the party. The pressure only added to the sense of achievement when the evening finally came together.

Adding a touch of chaos and charm, the couple also raised a group of turkey chicks for their first Christmas celebrations — though the birds briefly escaped, forcing Reuben and Jess to work together to round them up.

Reflecting on their journey, Reuben remarked with a smile that it was their second Christmas together, while Jess laughed as she realised how quickly time had passed, admitting she “couldn’t believe it” herself. When asked about Christmas presents, Jess insisted she didn’t need anything, while Reuben joked that he was hoping for articulated wrap — and perhaps even another digger.

The episode echoed the affection the couple have shown publicly in recent months. Back in October, Reuben marked their one-year anniversary with a heartfelt Instagram post declaring his love for Jess, who responded by saying they had made “so many amazing memories together”.

Gift baskets

Fans were quick to flood the couple with warm messages, praising their natural chemistry and calling them “made for one another”, with many urging Channel 5 to feature Jess even more on the show.