Noel and Sue Radford have candidly discussed an "emotional clash" that arose from a pivotal choice Noel took.

The Radford family, who became household names through TV documentaries such as 15 Kids and Counting and 22 Kids and Counting, live in a sprawling 10-bedroom home in Morecambe with their 22 children and 14 grandchildren.

Both Noel, now 54, and Sue, aged 50, were adopted as children. In the new series, audiences will discover that Noel, who was adopted at just 10 days old, has recently met his birth mother, marking a significant moment in this year's episodes.

Sue, however, holds different sentiments about tracing her biological parents, openly admitting to their "very different views".

In an interview with Closer Magazine, Noel shared his feelings: "It was an emotional clash rather than horrible. We have differing views on it, but I totally understand Sue doesn't want to find hers and that is fine."

Sue explained her position, saying: "We have very different views. For me, my mum and dad are my mum and dad. I never want to meet my birth mum, and after losing Alfie, it made me more determined, as when you lose a child, you don't have the option to give it up. We have wonderful kids and a happy life, and we feel very lucky we've got them."

In 2014, the Radford family was struck by tragedy when their son Alfie was stillborn. Fast forward to 2024, and they've posted a heartfelt homage to Alfie on Instagram, featuring a photo of his birth certificate and an emotive message, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Their post was adorned with blue heart emojis and the poignant words: "Received Alfie's birth certificate yesterday. This is going to be framed. So precious."

Despite a joyful life with his adoptive family, Noel harboured a yearning to meet his biological mother and enlisted the help of an adoption expert to find her. The search was successful, revealing that she too was keen on a reunion.

Noel recounted the encounter as "emotional", spanning "a couple of hours" where he found her "nice" and content with their meeting. His mother shared her youthful dilemma, explaining her decision to give him up at 17, hoping he would one day look for her.

However, despite the heartfelt reunion, Noel does not wish to establish a relationship with her. He expressed being "glad" to have met her, but maintains "that's it," affirming that his adoptive parents are his true family.

You can catch 22 Kids and Counting when it returns to Channel 5 on Sunday, July 20, from 8pm.