The Repair Shop

S07:E22 - Rocking Duck, Pop's Flying Jacket, 60s Banjo

Today in the Repair Shop, Jay Blades and the team rejuvenate three cherished heirlooms that have fallen into disrepair.First to receive an item in need of attention is master of metal work, Dominic Chinea. Nick Cope brings in a 1950s rocking duck chair which has been enjoyed by countless children in his family. The cheery looking duck originally belonged to his aunt who tragically died as a child. His mother was devastated by the loss of her sister and kept the rocking chair as a reminder of her sibling. Nick remembers the fun that he and his brothers had playing in it and would love his grandson to have a go too. However, the duck is in a sorry state and certainly not safe for little ones to ride. Its paint is chipped and rusty and the pale blue upholstery on the seat is too far gone. Dom gets to work on the metal frame while the queen of upholstery, Sonnaz Nooranvary, replaces the seat cushioning.Braving the evening air with a jacket too delicate to wear is Fiona Elliott. She's hoping Suzie Fletcher's leather skills can save a memento of a brave and much-loved dad who she called Pops. He was a glider pilot during WW2, making several dangerous Channel crossings to deliver troops and equipment to the front line. After the war, the warm jacket continued to serve him well when he worked on his family's farm. Fiona remembers being wrapped in the jacket while out in the fields with Pops. But this job is not for the fainthearted, the leather is ripped and parched and the fastenings are failing. Suzie gives it her best shot leaving a grateful Fiona utterly delighted.And finally, luthier Julyan Wallis is called upon to mend an old banjo that represents a father and son's love of music. Morgan Du Bruler is very attached to this damaged instrument. It belonged to his late father who lived a fascinating life, travelling the world with this banjo by his side. It has been passed from father to son for generations and it was Morgan's turn in 2008 when his father passed away. Morgan also inherited his father's passion for music and he's keen to continue playing the banjo. However, the years have caught up with the instrument and it could do with a total refurbishment. Julyan is only too happy to oblige.