Countryfile is one of the most popular programmes on television as it appeals to the large community of agricultural workers across the United Kingdom.
The BBC show is used to tackling the difficult and often shied-away-from issues facing those within the industry.
Tonight saw Tom, 52, delve deep into the taboo surrounding gay male farmers and how often their suffering can lead to a life of hidden identity and constant pain or even suicide.
Rural affairs correspondent Tom lifted the lid on the issue when he spoke to agricultural chaplain Keith Ironson, who runs the only gay farmers’ helpline in the UK.
Keith revealed that there is an incredible “burden of expectation” on men entering the profession and particularly when farming is a family business.
“The pressure in the farming community to get married and produce an heir is enormous,” he shared. “So a lot of folks did exactly that.
Noting that tying the knot didn’t automatically make things any better or help farmers cope with their sexuality, he added: “But of course then they get into their 50s and realise that it didn’t sort it all out.”
Viewers were quick to share their opinions on social media and many were thrilled the series was shedding light on the problem.
One person wrote: “Amazing item about gay farmers and the struggles they face on #countryfile – great to see the most watched show on telly talking about this stuff .”
“Good to see #countryfile highlighting mental health difficulties facing gay farmers,” another said.
A third agreed: “This piece on gay farmers and suicide on #Countryfile is heartbreaking. Please, please talk to someone if you’re struggling.”
While a fourth shared: “Really powerful film on @BBCCountryfile highlighting how alienated many gay farmers feel & the support line set-up by a farming chaplain. It’s an issue I knew little about. #countryfile.”
Others were rocked by the piece, as one viewer posted: “Wow. Some terrible stories of homophobia from families of farmers. So sad. #countryfile.”
Some couldn’t understand the relevance on a countryside programme as one admitted: “Just turned over and they’re discussing suicide and sexuality. All very important but on #countryfile? Not so sure.”
Host Tom also spoke to one farm worker called Frank who had used the helpline successfully and come out as gay since.
He told of how he’d developed depression as a result of his struggle which started with the death of his brother and meant that “everything just got on top of him”.
But after speaking confidentially to the helpline, Frank eventually managed to come to terms with his sexuality.
Asked what advice he’d give to anyone going through the same things, the farmer urged: “You’re gonna have a lot of mental anguish about whether you’re doing the right thing, but you are because you don’t have to hide yourself any longer and it’s liberating.”
Openly revealing his own feelings on the matter, Tom added: “It’s a terrible burden for anyone, and sadly there’s probably hundreds of farmers struggling with this problem right now.”
For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 116 123 or visit a local Samaritans branch.
Countryfile continues Sundays at 7pm on BBC One.
