The Repair Shop Catch up, Series 16: Episode 6 on BBC 2

The Repair Shop

Series 16: Episode 6

First into the barn are June, Vivian and Jim from Oldham, carrying an extraordinary homemade washboard, which has served for decades as the centrepiece of the Barnhowlers Ukulele Club. Built by founding member George Wyatt, known affectionately as Magic George, the ingenious percussion instrument is a collection of whistles, horns, bells and washboard rhythms, and it became the beating heart of the group he created in 2008. But years of enthusiastic performances have left the instrument unstable and unplayable, while the custom gloves used to play it are falling apart. While musical instrument restorer Pete tackles the washboard’s mechanical problems, upholsterer Sonnaz gets to work recreating George’s unique thimble-tipped gloves. Can they restore this one-of-a-kind musical tribute and keep George’s memory playing on for future generations? \n\nNext through the doors are Steph and her daughter Alison, carrying a rather fragile piece of football history – a much-loved World Cup Willie mascot bought by Steph at the 1966 World Cup. Having attended all the matches at Wembley with her future husband Chris, Steph took the little lion everywhere with her, even carrying him in her pocket as England marched towards their famous victory. Tragically, Chris died just months after Alison was born, making World Cup Willie far more than a souvenir – he has become a treasured reminder of a love story cut heartbreakingly short and the only tangible link Alison has to her father. But after decades spent sitting on a damp windowsill, Willie’s face has deteriorated, his limbs have weakened, and his future is looking uncertain. It’s down to teddy bear experts Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch to restore this cherished mascot, preserving both his character and the precious memories he represents. Can they return World Cup Willie to his former glory in time to inspire another England triumph?

Source: BBC 2

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