Fans of the Yorkshire Dales farming life are buzzing with excitement after Reuben Owen, star of Reuben Owen: Life in the Dales, shared a deeply emotional moment in his recent festive special. The young farmer, known from Our Yorkshire Farm, revealed plans to spend his first proper Christmas with girlfriend Jess Ellwood, describing it as a massive step in their relationship. With emotions running high, Reuben admitted, “I can’t believe it,” as time has flown by so quickly in their blossoming romance.

The Channel 5 Christmas special, Reuben Owen: Christmas in the Dales, captured the couple’s heartfelt reflections amid the hustle of farm life. Reuben, now 21, and Jess, also 21, have been dating for over a year, celebrating their anniversary in October with sweet social media tributes filled with love and gratitude. In the episode, Reuben affectionately told Jess, “This is our second Christmas together, darling!” prompting her to reply, “Yeah, it will be, won’t it!” He added, “Time has flown, hasn’t it?” and Jess agreed, “Fast, yeah, I can’t believe it!”

This milestone comes as the couple strengthens their bond through shared hard work on the farm. They spent the holiday season renovating an old barn on Jess’s family farm in Cumbria, preparing it for a big yuletide party to thank friends and family for their support. Reuben’s team, including mates Sonny and Capper, plus Jess’s dad David, tackled the project under tight deadlines, laying a new stone floor and transforming the space into a festive venue.

Adding to the charm, Reuben and Jess took on rearing a flock of turkey chicks – a tradition from Jess’s childhood. The birds proved mischievous, escaping their pen and leading to chaotic but hilarious chases. Reuben laughed about the experience, noting it was new territory for him but perfect for creating their own Christmas dinner, knowing the birds had a happy life. The episode also showed them felling a Christmas tree by hand after forgetting the chainsaw, embodying the hands-on, resilient spirit of Dales farming.

Reuben’s journey has inspired many since rising to fame alongside his parents, Amanda and Clive Owen, and eight siblings on Our Yorkshire Farm. After branching out with his heavy machinery business, his solo show highlights personal growth, including this heartfelt relationship. Fans adore the couple’s down-to-earth dynamic – Jess, a fellow shepherdess, fits seamlessly into Reuben’s world, even earning approval from his family.

As the festive feast brought everyone together, including some of Reuben’s siblings and even his dad Clive, the special ended on a high note of gratitude and joy. This first dedicated Christmas together symbolizes more than holidays; it’s a step toward building a future, with the pair dreaming of their own land someday. Viewers are left feeling warm and hopeful, celebrating Reuben’s happiness in love amid the beautiful, rugged Yorkshire landscape.