Swapping sheep for snowmobiles and the gentle slopes of the Yorkshire Dales for the rugged terrain of the Arctic Circle, Reuben Owen delivers a Christmas special as unconventional as it is heartwarming. This one-off episode sees Owen celebrating a productive year for his heavy plant machinery business, but the festivities don’t kick off without a detour to Sweden.
Before the Christmas party commences, Owen and his ever-present companion, Tommy, jet off to Kiruna, a Swedish town facing a peculiar predicament: relocation due to extensive mining operations. There, amidst the snowy landscape, our duo lends their expertise and machinery to the delicate task of moving a historic church. It’s a unique blend of industrial might and cultural preservation, taking a look at a community adapting to extraordinary circumstances.
But it wouldn’t be a Reuben Owen adventure without a touch of the unexpected. Their Swedish sojourn also involves a stint with Sami reindeer herders, offering a stark contrast to the sheep-dotted hills of home. And, because no trip above the Arctic Circle is complete without it, a husky sleigh ride under the shimmering Northern Lights adds a dose of festive magic.
Back in the Dales, the Christmas spirit is in full swing. The local pub transforms into a winter wonderland, decked out with festive cheer, and the community gathers for a proper celebration, complete with presents, hearty food, and undoubtedly a few tall tales from their Scandinavian escapades. Oh, and did I mention Reuben’s early Christmas present? A snowmobile, naturally, which he and Tommy gleefully test drive, despite the distinct lack of snow in their typically green and pleasant land.
This Christmas special offers a refreshing twist on holiday programming, blending industrial endeavors, cultural exploration, and the simple joy of community celebration. It’s a reminder that the holidays aren’t just about turkey and tinsel; they’re about the people we share them with, wherever in the world they may be.
Tune in to Channel 5 on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, from 9:00pm to 10:00pm for Reuben Owen: Christmas in the Dales.
