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BBC One’s property renovation show ‘DIY SOS’ will head to Blackburn later this year to take on an ambitious project to benefit a local charity.
‘DIY SOS: The Big Build BBC Children in Need Special’ will see presenter Nick Knowles and his team, along with interior designer Gabrielle Blackman, convert a rundown church hall into accommodation and a support centre for Nightsafe: a Blackburn charity which provides support to young people who are homeless or vulnerably housed.
The DIY SOS team, plus hundreds of volunteers and tradespeople, will have nine days to transform the interior of the building.
Nick said: “The team and I are delighted to join forces with the community of Blackburn for this special build for local charity Nightsafe. As ever it’s an ambitious build. but with lots of help from the people of Blackburn and beyond, together with a few laughs along the way, we’ll be able to achieve something truly special.”
Julie Thomas, chair of trustees at Nightsafe, commented: “We are amazed and delighted that ‘DIY SOS: The Big Build for BBC Children in Need’ is coming to Blackburn and even more thrilled that they chose to work with Nightsafe. For the last 30 years, the organisation has supported those most on the margins of society, seeking to alleviate the plight of homelessness and working with those most vulnerable and in need of support. The upcoming show will give the young people a place to call home whilst they develop independent living skills – and a home that is safe and secure and in the heart of the local community.
Tommy Nagra, director of content at BBC Children in Need, added: “We’re delighted that Nick and the DIY SOS team are heading to Blackburn, to create another spectacular Big Build for BBC Children in Need. It’s a show that changes lives and will leave a lasting legacy for the vulnerable young people in the town.”
DIY SOS is appealing for tradespeople including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, plasterers and decorators to offer support with the transformation. There will be a ‘volunteer trades day’ on Tuesday August 13. Those interested in attending, or helping the build, should email before this date to diysosblackburn@bbc.co.uk
The build will take place from September 3 to September 12 with the episode broadcasting in November during BBC Children in Need Appeal week.
