The Repair Shop: Beyond the Barn S01E06 - Episode 6
Summary:
First into the barn are cousins Dave and Dom with an extraordinary handmade model fairground created by their grandfather, James Manley. Built from memory over many years using salvaged materials, the intricate miniature recreates the travelling fairground life James left behind after choosing to marry outside his fairground family and being disowned as a result. Decades of storage have left rides damaged, wiring unsafe and key components missing. Mechanical expert David Burville and electronics specialist Mark Stuckey join forces to rebuild the treasured attraction, determined to preserve a remarkable piece of family history and make a heartfelt tribute to a man who never forgot his roots.
Next to arrive is Anne Thomas with a 150-year-old portrait of her great-great-grandfather, John Durdin. Family research revealed that Durdin was the central figure in a notorious Victorian banking fraud that ultimately brought down the institution he worked for. Over the years, the painting has suffered damage, amateur restoration attempts and extensive overpainting that has obscured both the artist's work and the sitter's true appearance. Art conservator Lucia Scalisi embarks on a fascinating investigation, uncovering hidden details beneath layers of paint while restoring a striking portrait connected to the dramatic family scandal.
Horologist Steve Fletcher takes on a mantel clock brought in by Colin from Glasgow. The clock has been passed down through generations of Colin's family and was once a constant presence in the home of his beloved grandmother, Linda. As a child, Linda saved his life during a tragic accident, and her support continued throughout his life, including his career as drag performer Bella Houston. When the treasured clock stopped working shortly after Colin inherited it, it became a painful reminder of her loss. Steve must diagnose a complex mechanical fault and carefully restore the century-old timepiece so that its familiar tick can once again fill Colin's home.
Finally, Dominic Chinea tackles a heavily battle-scarred rugby wheelchair belonging to army veteran Jules. Following a spinal injury sustained during military service, Jules struggled with both his physical and mental health before discovering wheelchair rugby through the Invictus Games. The sport transformed his life and inspired him to establish Somerset's first wheelchair rugby club, helping others find the same sense of purpose and community. One of the club's earliest donated chairs is now damaged, buckled and unusable after years of intense competition. With help from bicycle restorer Tim Gunn and upholsterer Sonnaz Nooranvary, Dom sets out to return the chair to fighting form, before visiting Jules and his team to see how it is being used by new players of the high-octane sport.
