The Repair Shop returns on Wednesday 10 April and fans couldn't be more excited! The BBC series, which is fronted by Jay Blades, sees a group of experts help members of the public restore precious or much-loved items, returning them to their former glory while giving us a glimpse of the process. But, with renowned specialists taking on such challenging fixes, it must cost a pretty penny, right?
The recipients are always delighted by the results - but do they have to pay for the service? We've done some investigating to find out the answer - plus how you can apply to be on the show!
Luckily for people taking their family heirlooms to be repaired, the BBC show does not charge for the service. Speaking about the costs, the Head of Factual at The Repair Shop's production company, Ricochet, Rob Butterfield, explained: "We don't charge for repairs. If people wish to make a donation to a charity we’re very happy with that, but it’s by no means necessary." Incredible!
You can also apply to go on the show with an item you would like to be restored via the BBC website. It reads: "If you have a treasured item that's seen better days and you think our experts can help, please get in touch now! We’re also keen to hear from communities who have objects of historical or social interest they’d like our help with."
The series is filmed at the Weald and Downland Living Museum in Singleton, West Sussex - so the repair shop isn't a permanent fixture!
Speaking about the location, Rob told the Radio Times: "Many of our huge pool of experts run their own businesses, but the Weald and Downland Museum [in Singleton, West Sussex], where The Repair Shop is filmed, doesn’t offer a repair service outside the show."
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