Catch up TV

Strictly Special

In a special episode, DIY SOS partner up with Strictly Come Dancing to bring some sparkle to a performing arts school in Wallsend, North Tyneside. Nick Knowles and his team set to work on transforming a derelict old boys’ club into a creative home for True Colours, a charity that welcomes all children and young adults, whatever their abilities, providing them with a space to express themselves. \n\nOn hand to make sure the build has everything a dance school needs and more are Strictly professionals drafted in by judge Anton Du Beke. Swapping the Strictly ballroom for a building site and spending time getting to know some of the True Colours members are Katya Jones, Luba Mushtuk, Graziano Di Prima and Nancy Xu. \n\nWith only six days to complete the build, it’s a huge challenge. Disused for more than a decade, the old sports hall is dark and dingy, with a graffiti-filled concrete yard outside. Split across two levels, it also needs to be made accessible for the charity’s 200 members. \n\nHundreds of local volunteers get to work, creating breakout spaces for children and their family members to relax in, as well as a beautiful sensory room for those dealing with anxiety. A donated platform lift provides that essential access. Outside, what once resembled a car park, is transformed with glittery paved paths and beautifully scented plants and flowers. The main performance space has a huge glow-up, new flooring, an accessible stage and of course that all-important glitter ball, proudly switched on by Katya. The charity say thank you in the best way they know how... with a performance dedicated to the volunteers.

Source: BBC 1