Hosts on the coast

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION C4, 8pm FRIENDLY banter and teasing rivalry between long-time TV couple Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer is surely the reason for the longevity of this hit show.

Perhaps it will make you feel old to learn that this is the 23rd series and it was first on our screens 17 years ago. That’s the age of an actual adult human who is old enough to drive. Nonetheless, we are still charmed by Kirstie and Phil, who rattle through more house searches with good humour and don’t take themselves too seriously.

“He is bitterly disappointing, small and fatter than he looks on telly,” Kirstie describes her property partner. But we’re Brits and we need affectionate insults and sarcasm in our lives.

In this episode, the gurus head to the seaside in Kent – just a shame it’s blustery November weather as they help two sets of buyers.

Phil is in Whitstable, which has been struck by the ‘DFL’ effect – Down From London. Rich and Debs (and their two teenage daughters, a pug, a cat and several bikes), are indeed down from London, and are desperate to be beside the seaside. Although if they can’t get a sea view, they will settle for a “sea glimpse”.

But Debs wants a project while Rich just wants to bring his toothbrush and move in. Good luck with pleasing both of them then, Phil.

Meanwhile, Kirstie is helping Gary and Siobhan, who (like her) have four active boys and need space. They definitely want to stick by the coast where they can go for long walks along the promenade.

“It tires them out,” sighs Gary.

By the end, you’ll be pining to live by the seaside too (if you don’t already).

It’s just a shame we don’t have Phil and Kirstie to help us out.

HOUSE HUNT Phil and Kirstie head to Kent