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Episode 2

Steve Fletcher visits a cobbler mascot, Mark Stuckey brings a vintage radio from Brazil back to life, and Julyan Wallis rescues a mandolin once played for Queen Elizabeth II.

Clockmaker Steve Fletcher travels to Stourbridge to see John and Bert, the animatronic cobbler who has stood in John’s shop window for nearly 50 years. Once a childhood fascination and now a cherished part of John's business, Bert had suffered a broken wrist and worn-out mechanics. After strengthening the figure and rebuilding its movement, Steve visits the cobbler, which is back in action and continuing a tradition that has entertained generations.

Electronics expert Mark Stuckey visits Ricardo Cogginotto and the treasured Brazilian radio inherited from his father. The radio had fallen silent after decades of use accompanying family fishing trips, football matches and treasured moments together. Following a careful restoration, Mark visits Ricardo, bringing him a device to listen to the Brazilian music he once listened to with his dad through the repaired radio, reigniting vivid memories of his childhood in South America.

Meanwhile, luthier Julyan Wallis follows up on one of his most ambitious restorations: a badly damaged mandolin that travelled the world with Royal Navy veteran Tom Seddes and even entertained the royal family aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia. Damaged by an accident at sea, the instrument seemed beyond repair. With its structure rebuilt and voice restored, Jules visits Cornwall to hear Tom playing once again, proving that this seafaring companion still has many songs left to sing.

Release date:

57 minutes

Credits

RoleContributor
ExpertWilliam Kirk
ExpertSteven Fletcher
ExpertMark Stuckey
ExpertRichard Talman
ExpertJulyan Wallis
NarratorAshley Jensen
Series ProducerShane Normoyle
DirectorSteven Coward
DirectorIngo Nyakairu
Production CompanyRicochet Ltd

Broadcasts

  • Next Wednesday20:00
  • Next Thursday23:40
  • Fri 11 Sep 202600:10
  • Fri 11 Sep 202600:25

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If you have a treasured possession that needs restoring, please get in touch.