Television star Matt Baker has expressed that "it was hard" for him to "stand back" during the filming of his new agricultural series, where he plays a less hands-on role as contestants take the reins. The 47 year old celebrity is currently in the limelight with his latest endeavour Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker, a project which he both created and produces. Spanning over eight episodes, the programme features seven eager candidates vying for the chance to manage Llyndy Isaf – an impressive 600-acre farmstead in Eryri, North Wales. During the show, the contenders roll out their business proposals, share their aspirations for the estate, and immerse themselves in the day-to-day workings of the farm through various challenges and activities. However, despite his extensive farming knowledge as seen on Countryfile, Matt confessed to BBC Essex that he struggled with the need to observe rather than participate: "It's hard not to get involved but it's their selection process, I'm not taking on the tenancy, so it was hard for me to step back," reports Gloucestershire Live. Engaging only when necessary, Baker recounted his active moments on the farm: "I joined in when I needed to. Sometimes I was lambing at two in the morning. It was great and I love it, I'm really proud of it." Clear about the intended portrayal of country living, he pointed out: "That's the reality of living there. It's a window into a world, not just for TV's entertainment, this is real world stuff." With a hopeful perspective for the participants, he added: "Thankfully we're giving them all a chance to show what they are worth so hopefully, they get chosen." Matt's career in television started to soar after he landed a hosting role on the much-loved children's programme Blue Peter back in 1999. Since then, his portfolio has expanded with notable gigs on Countryfile, his contributions on The One Show, as well as providing commentary for Olympic events, among other appearances. The father of two has disclosed that his latest programme is a labour of love, aiming to highlight the challenges faced by UK farmers. Matt elaborated: "I'm passionate about putting farming front and centre. I want to open eyes to how you do have to be a Jack of all trades and how challenging it can be. "Educating and awareness is so important. I followed this from the early stages all the way through. "Presenting it is one thing but actually producing it, editing it, creating it and doing all that kind of stuff is another. It's a passion project of mine, and I just want them to do as well as they can do." Tune in for the fifth instalment of the second series of Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker, airing today (Saturday, April 12) at 6pm on Channel 4.