HOW FEELGOOD JAY BLADES & N
‘Jay and I got on like a house on fire when we met’
NICK Knowles and Jay Blades are on a mission to make TV more uplifting.
Both presenters are famed for fronting hit shows that focus on people helping others.
Handyman Nick, 59, has been hosting DIY SOS for more than two decades, and Jay, 51, stars on The Repair Shop.
The pair have become firm friends over their shared love for making inspiring telly, and reckon their shows have a lot in common.
Nick said: “Jay and I met at an event and got on like a house on fire. We’ve become good friends.
“Our programmes have a similar ambition and ethos, so we have that in common.”
Jay added: “I’m learning from the best. That’s what it’s all about.”
The pair are hoping the success of their shows will mean channel bosses commission more like them.
Jay said: “The Repair Shop is a success because it’s about normal, everyday people and it has emotion.
“And because of that, the public love it.”
Nick added: “On
DIY SOS we take on projects for people who have overcome extraordinary difficulties.
“And so many people put themselves out to help. It’s a nice show because it reminds us all that people are generous and that communities can work really well together.
“There isn’t much telly that does this kind of thing.
“Historically, we haven’t done much of it on British TV. But when you do, everybody loves it. People like TV with heart.”
With the country going through hell during the pandemic, Nick thinks television celebrating the good in people is more important than ever.
He said: “You have to hope that as we come out of the pandemic, we emerge into a world where people don’t get left behind.
“I think that’s how the country feels. I think that’s the community spirit that people want.”
And Jay wants to keep making The Repair Shop so that he can continue to help people.
He added: “There are so many people out there and so many items we can repair.
“I enjoy doing it and I want to keep doing it.
“We are trying to catch up to DIY SOS – we will get there one day!”