Speakers

Best recognised as a Countryfile and Costing The Earth presenter, Tom Heap also spent time as the former Rural Affairs Correspondent of BBC News. Since 2012 he has also taken on the role of Director and media presenter of the media company, Checked Shirt TV limited. Tom showcases his passion revealing the hidden depths of rural and environmental stories while presenting Countryfile. He is also heard among the nations only dedicated environmental series on Radio 4 where he is the principal voice of Costing of the Earth. Additionally, he regularly reports on Panorama where he covers wildlife, food, farming and energy and presented the popular BBC 1 daytime series Animal 24:7.

Starting his career as a sound man at Sky News, Tom quickly worked his way up the ranks of the BBC News Trainee scheme to BBC News Correspondent specialising in Rural Affairs, Science and the Environment. Tom covered the 50th anniversary of the ascent of Mount Everest for the BBC. Leading a broadcasting team he hosted a live 30-minute programme from base camp. Tom is an extremely versatile presenter with a warm personality which has made him a huge hit for daytime TV. He has also featured on the radio podcast 39 Ways to Save the Planet, acting as a passionate advocate for the fight against climate change.

With an informal yet informative speaking style and the ability to create a lively atmosphere full of useful knowledge, Tom has successfully spoken at a range of environment, science and rural affair events. Tom has been extremely well received at these events due to his journalistic pedigree which gives him the drive and confidence to chair a great discussion and cut to the heart of the matter. Former clients include the Policy Foresight Programme, the General Synod, the Renewable Energy Association, Syngenta, the National Non-Foods Crop Centre, LEAF, the Science Media Centre and the British Science Festival.