John Craven is perhaps best known these days for presenting Countryfile, which highlights rural and environmental issues and celebrates the British countryside. He joined Countryfile in 1989 after presenting the programme which first made him a household name, John Craven's Newsround.

Millenium Honours
In the Millennium Honours, John was awarded the OBE for services to children's and rural broadcasting. In 1996, the Royal Television Society inducted him into its Hall of Fame and in 2002 presented him with its prestigious Baird Medal "in recognition of his outstanding contribution to television". In March, 2000, he was handed the big red book on This Is Your Life.

Journalist
Born in Leeds, John started his career in newspapers before joining the BBC in Newcastle-upon-Tyne as a news writer, later becoming a reporter on regional radio and television before launching Newsround in 1972. Originally a six week experiment, Newsround is now a national institution and John fronted more than 3,000 editions, reporting from more than 40 countries. For ten years, he was also one of the faces of Saturday morning television, first on Swap Shop and later on Saturday SuperStore.

Countryfile
For Countryfile, John reports from all corners of the British isles and mainland Europe. Like Newsround, it is a ground-breaking programme - the only one of its kind on network television. From exclusive reports on major concerns to items which reflect the joy and beauty of rural Britain, Countryfile is a weekly "must" for many viewers.

John has also presented the Christmas BBC One wildlife special Animal Sanctuary, from locations which have included Africa, Australia, California, Mauritius and Chile. He makes guest appearances on many tv and radio shows, from Shooting Stars to The News Quiz, and when not broadcasting is busy with corporate work, travel writing, speaking engagements and public appearances.

Awards
During his career, John and his programmes have won many awards including two BAFTAs and the TV Times Award. Among his honorary positions he is patron of The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society and The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad and vice-president of The Waterways Trust. John is married with two daughters and lives in North Oxfordshire.

Television John Craven's Newsround Swapshop Saturday Superstore Animal Sanctuary Countryfile