Suzie Fletcher, renowned as the leather expert on the BBC’s The Repair Shop, has spoken candidly about the profound personal experiences that shaped her path back to Oxfordshire. Originally from Oxford, Suzie moved to the United States to establish herself as a master saddler in Illinois. What was intended to be a two-year stay extended into 22 years after she met her late husband, Rob, just weeks after arriving.
The couple shared a life rooted in the ruggedness of ranch living in Colorado. Reflecting on their time together, Suzie has openly discussed challenges in their relationship, including periods of control and intimidation. She revealed instances where Rob’s behaviour was threatening, recalling a chilling moment when he told her, “I’ve worked out how to have you killed. And I will get away with it.”
Tragically, Rob passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2013 at the age of 51. Suzie remarked to The Times that despite the difficulties they faced, his death was a devastating event. “We went through good times and bad,” she said, “He was sometimes abusive towards me, but he had demons of his own. I was nonetheless devastated when he lost his life so young. In due course, I decided to return home.”
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Now settled in Witney, Oxfordshire, alongside her brother Steve, Suzie has no plans to leave the UK again. “I love Oxfordshire. I am very happy to be back in this great country and see no reason to leave ever again,” she affirmed.
In a 2023 interview with Lorraine Kelly, Suzie elaborated on the complex dynamics of her relationship with Rob, attributing his mistreatment to his own insecurities and struggles. “We were good together, weirdly, but we had this element which was not healthy,” she reflected. Her willingness to explore these difficult aspects underscores her interest in understanding and addressing such challenges.
Rob had delayed seeking medical help, and by the time he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, the disease was advanced and untreatable. Suzie’s memoir, The Sun Over The Mountains, recounts the heartrending moments as Rob faced his illness. She poignantly describes his physical decline and his determination to embark on a final motorcycle journey, during which fellow riders noticed his frailty and offered assistance.
Observing him concede to his condition, Suzie saw a shift in his spirit - from fierce resistance to acceptance. “You see it in their eyes and you can trace it along their brow,” she wrote, recognising this as a significant turning point in coping with terminal illness.
After Rob’s passing, Suzie’s brother Steve recommended her to the producers of The Repair Shop. Initially hesitant, Suzie eventually joined the team as the leather specialist. The experience has not only brought her professional fulfilment but has also played a crucial role in her healing process. “This is one of the most enjoyable things I’ve ever been involved with and it’s also helped me through some very dark days,” she shared.
Today, Suzie Fletcher continues to inspire audiences with her craftsmanship and resilience, firmly rooted in her Oxfordshire home where she embraces both her past and future.