Thousands of visitors met the stars of TV’s most-popular rural show when they came to Charlton Park, near Malmesbury, for an open-air Christmas event.

Countryfile At Christmas was a big success for the UK’s most-watched factual TV programme and the recent rain did not dampen it.

“It was smaller than Womad but just as muddy,” said one of the many who were entertained by the stars and the stalls.

“But it’s a good job that being a farmer I’m used to the mud,” said the show’s Adam Henson as he made his way to a book signing, one of many attractions at the event.

“Countryfile At Christmas aimed to bring the award-winning elements of the popular programme to a live audience in an immersive festive environment,” said a BBC spokesman.

“BBC Countryfile Christmas in the Park was a brand new event jam-packed with festive experiences that the whole family could enjoy. Nestled in the park’s magical arboretum, the Countryfile Tented Village provided the perfect winter countryside retreat and played host to a festive feature line up like no other, with the Countryfile presenters as the hosts.

“Topics ranged from discussing thought-provoking environmental trends and winter life on the farm, to hearing about the presenter’s New Year’s resolutions and joining in with the “A Question of Christmas” big Christmas Quiz.