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Episode 27

Episode 27 of 40

Jay Blades and the team revive a rusty rocking toy, a torn pilot鈥檚 flying jacket from the Second World War and a bashed-up banjo.

Jay Blades and the team rejuvenate three cherished heirlooms that have fallen into disrepair.

First to receive an item in need of attention is our master of metalwork, Dominic Chinea. Nick Cope has brought in a 1950s rocking duck chair that has been enjoyed by countless children in his family. The cheery-looking duck originally belonged to his aunt, who tragically died as a child. His mother was devastated by the loss of her sister and kept the rocking chair as a reminder of her sibling. Nick remembers the fun that he and his brothers had playing in it and would love his grandson to have a go too. However, the duck is in a sorry state and certainly not safe for little ones to ride. Its paint is chipped, and the pale blue upholstery on the seat is too far gone. Dom gets to work on the metal frame while the queen of upholstery, Sonnaz Nooranvary, replaces the seat cushioning.

Braving the evening air with a jacket too delicate to wear is Fiona Elliott. She鈥檚 hoping Suzie Fletcher鈥檚 leather skills can save a memento of a brave and much-loved dad whom she called Pops. He was a glider pilot during the Second World War, making several dangerous Channel crossings to deliver troops and equipment to the front line. After the war, the warm jacket continued to serve him well when he worked on his family鈥檚 farm. Fiona remembers being wrapped in the jacket while out in the fields with Pops. But this job is not for the faint-hearted - the leather is ripped and parched, and the fastenings are failing.

And finally, luthier Julyan Wallis is called upon to mend an old banjo that represents a father and son鈥檚 love of music. Morgan Du Bruler is very attached to this damaged instrument, which belonged to his late father, who lived a fascinating life, travelling the world with this banjo by his side. It has been passed from father to son for generations, and it was Morgan鈥檚 turn in 2008 when his father passed away. Morgan also inherited his father鈥檚 passion for music, and he's keen to continue playing the banjo. However, the years have caught up with the instrument, and it could do with a total refurbishment. Julyan is only too happy to oblige.

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43 minutes

Audio described

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Jay Blades
Narrator Bill Paterson
Expert Suzie Fletcher
Expert Sonnaz Nooranvary
Expert Julyan Wallis
Expert Dominic Chinea
Director Rich Merritt
Series Producer Rebecca McLaughlin
Series Producer Tanveer Bari
Executive Producer Alex Raw
Production Company Ricochet Ltd

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If you have a treasured possession that needs restoring, please get in touch.