Stars of the beloved BBC series The Repair Shop are reaching out to viewers with a special request. Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch, affectionately known as the Teddy Bear Ladies, have taken to social media to ask fans to share their much-loved, treasured items that hold a warm Christmas story.
In a charming video posted on their joint Instagram page, Amanda asks, “Julie, why are we packing all this away?” Julie, sporting a Santa hat, responds, “Because it’s not Christmas anymore.” Amanda laughs and replies, “Ah, but it will be soon.” When Julie expresses doubt, Amanda assures her, “Yes, because The Repair Shop is filming their next Christmas special, and we need items with heartwarming festive stories behind them.”
Julie and Amanda encourage viewers to search for sentimental items with a Christmas connection. “You must have something out there,” Julie said, with Amanda adding, “You never know what we might receive, but please, have a good think.”
READ MORE: Gloucester Residents Face Higher Taxes Amid Service Cuts as Council Approves Budget Increase
READ MORE: BBC Countryfile Star Ben Fogle Opens Up About Confiding in Wife Over Secret TV Role
Fans who want to participate can submit their treasured Christmas items by visiting bbc.co.uk/takepart or emailing [email protected].
Julie and Amanda have become fixtures on The Repair Shop, using their expertise to restore cherished toys and keepsakes. Julie, a specialist in traditional toy-making and vintage bear restoration, and Amanda launched their restoration business, Bear it in Mind, in the New Forest in 2006.
Beyond their TV appearances, the duo hosts the podcast ‘Bearly Begun,’ shares updates on Twitter and Instagram, and has co-authored a popular children’s book. Though not related, they have been close friends and colleagues for over 15 years, united by their passion for restoration.
Their dedication caught the attention of BBC producers, leading to their joining The Repair Shop in 2017, where their skill and warmth have touched countless viewers and participants.
Episodes of The Repair Shop are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.