Tell me a bio of John Craven.

Include key facts about their life, career, achievements, and impact.

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John Craven is a British television presenter, best known for hosting the popular children's television program 'Blue Peter' from 1972 to 1981 and again from 1998 to 2009. Here's a brief overview of his life and career:

**Early Life:**
John Craven was born on June 8, 1939, in Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, England. He grew up in a family of modest means and was educated at Cleethorpes Grammar School.

**Career:**
Craven began his career in journalism, working as a reporter for the Grimsby Evening Telegraph. He later moved to the BBC, where he worked as a reporter and presenter for various programs, including 'Look North' and 'Nationwide.'

**Blue Peter:**
In 1972, Craven was appointed as the fourth presenter of 'Blue Peter,' a long-running children's television program. He hosted the show for nine years, becoming a beloved figure among children and parents alike. Craven's warm and engaging on-screen presence made him a natural fit for the program, which focused on education, entertainment, and outdoor activities.

**Return to Blue Peter:**
After a 17-year absence, Craven returned to 'Blue Peter' in 1998, hosting the show for a further 11 years. During his second stint, he continued to promote the program's values of education, adventure, and community service.

**Other Ventures:**
In addition to his work on 'Blue Peter,' Craven has presented various other television programs, including 'Countryfile,' a popular BBC series that explores rural life and the natural world. He has also written several books on topics such as gardening, wildlife, and the environment.

**Achievements and Impact:**
Throughout his career, John Craven has made a significant impact on British television and children's education. His work on 'Blue Peter' has inspired countless young people to engage with the natural world, develop a love of learning, and become involved in community service. Craven's commitment to promoting environmental awareness and conservation has also helped raise public awareness of these important issues.

**Awards and Honors:**
Craven has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to television and education, including an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2001 for his services to children's television.

**Personal Life:**
John Craven is married to Celia, and they have two children together. He is a keen gardener and naturalist, and enjoys spending time in the countryside.
John Craven is a renowned English journalist, television presenter, and naturalist. Born on August 8, 1939, in Cramlington, Northumberland, England, he is best known for presenting the popular BBC television program "Countryfile."

**Early Life and Education**

Craven grew up in a small village in Northumberland. He developed a passion for the outdoors from an early age, spending his childhood exploring the countryside and developing a strong connection with nature. Craven attended Leeds University, where he studied English literature.

**Career**

After completing his education, Craven began his career as a journalist, working for the Yorkshire Post and later for the BBC as a radio presenter. He started his television career in 1968 as the presenter of the BBC's "Tonight" program, a current affairs show. In 1969, Craven became the first presenter of the BBC's "Nationwide" program, a popular current affairs show that ran until 1983.

**Countryfile and Impact**

In 1989, Craven joined the BBC's "Countryfile" team, becoming the main presenter of the program. Countryfile is a long-running television program that explores the countryside, highlighting issues affecting rural communities, and showcasing the natural beauty of the British countryside. Craven has been at the forefront of the program, making a significant contribution to its success. Under his guidance, Countryfile has become one of the BBC's most popular programs, with a large and dedicated audience.

Craven's commitment to highlighting rural issues and promoting environmental awareness has had a significant impact on the way people view the countryside and its inhabitants. He has used his platform to raise awareness about pressing issues such as rural poverty, animal welfare, and the importance of protecting the natural environment.

**Awards and Recognition**

Throughout his career, Craven has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to television and conservation. Some notable awards include:

* Honorary doctorates from the University of Lincoln and the University of Chester
* British TV Award for Best Factual Presenter (2003)
* Broadcast Press Guild Award for Best Factual Program (2007)
* BAFTA TV Award for Best Specialist Factual Program (2009)

**Conservation Work**

In addition to his television work, Craven is an active advocate for conservation and animal welfare. He has been involved with various charitable organizations, including the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the BBC Wildlife Fund. Craven has also written several books on natural history and conservation, including "The Nature's Story" and "Conservation Story".

**Legacy**

John Craven's legacy is one of dedication to promoting the natural world and the importance of conservation. Through his tireless efforts and his popular television program, "Countryfile," he has inspired a new generation of nature lovers and conservationists. As one of the most respected and beloved television personalities in the UK, Craven continues to inspire and educate audiences about the importance of protecting our planet's precious resources.