John Raymond Craven

John Craven is a British journalist and television presenter best known for Newsround and Countryfile on BBC One. He is one of the longest-serving presenters in British television history.

Overview

John Raymond Craven's Profile

John Craven was born on 16 August 1940 in Leeds, West Riding of Yorkshire, England. His father was a prisoner of war during World War II. Craven grew up in Yorkshire, attending Leeds Modern School.

He left school at 16 and began his career as a journalist, working for local newspapers such as the Harrogate Advertiser before moving into national media and broadcasting.

Craven became a household name in 1972 as the first presenter of John Craven’s Newsround on the BBC, hosting over 3,000 episodes and shaping children’s news broadcasting.

In 1989, he joined Countryfile on BBC One, where he became the programme’s longest-serving presenter, covering rural affairs, farming, and environmental issues.

He lives in Oxfordshire with his family and continues to present television while contributing to environmental and charitable organisations.

Quick Facts

1
Shows Hosted

0
Shows Currently Hosting

37
Years Active

3
Awards & Nominations

TV Shows​

A list of television shows hosted by this host, including current programs and previous presenting roles.

Networks

A list of Networks that this host has worked for.

No current networks found.

No past networks found.

Personal Life

Family, relationships and background

  • Marriage Marilyn Craven from to (Current wife)
  • Victoria Craven , a biological child with Marilyn Craven, born in
  • Emma Craven , a biological child with Marilyn Craven, born in

Education

Educational background and qualifications

  • Went to Leeds Modern School; left at 16 years of age
  • undertook an apprenticeship at Yorkshire Copperworks, writing for the company magazine which launched him into the media space

Net Worth & Income

Income sources, net worth, and properties.

  • Income from presenter roles on television
  • Earnings from public speaking and media appearances
  • Revenue from book sales - John Craven's Wildlife Report and Headlines and Hedgerows: A Memoir

Awards

Awards & recognition

  • BAFTA TV Award - Harlequin' (Documentary/Factual) - 1976
  • RTS Baird Medal (2002)
  • BAFTA Children's Special Award - Recognition of its Contribution to Television, Newsround (2011)