The Repair Shop

S08:E37 - Diablo, Stage Shoes, Katie's Telescope

Today, a Victorian diablo is given a new lease of life in time to inspire a new generation. And a pair of glitzy high heels from the 1950s that were often worn on stage create more drama than expected. First into the barn is Marion with a diablo dating back to the 1890s for the attention of woodwork expert, Will Kirk. Originally gifted to Marion's grandfather, Thomas, when he was a child, he became adept at tricks with the simple toy. Marion remembers it from when she was just a toddler but trying to replicate her grandfather's moves with less skill has left it badly chipped and damaged. Despite its dishevelled appearance it is a powerful connection to the grandfather she loved. Will is tasked to return it to a usable state so Marion's grandson, who would be the fifth generation to have it, can take it to university.Next, sisters Fiona and Janice arrive with a pair of sparkly stage shoes worn by their mum, Betty, who loved the dance halls of the 1940s and 50s. Although she danced all her life Betty gave up ballroom dancing when her children came along but in later life returned to performing once more. The shoes were always at the bottom of the wardrobe and as kids Fiona and Janice would dress up in them and they are now a link to their much-missed mother. But for cobbler Dean Westmoreland the characteristic silver threading that makes them perfect for the stage is far more complicated to repair than he first thought.The final visitor to the barn is Katie who hopes optics expert Richard Biggs can bring her childhood telescope back to working order. Currently in pieces the telescope was bought for her by her dad, Charlie, when she was 16 as a way to connect with the interests held by his young daughter. They bonded over many hours stargazing and spotting the planets but after Charlie passed away when Katie was 19 the telescope fell into disrepair. Now she wants it mended as her young son is desperate to take up stargazing and wants to use the telescope that was originally bought by the grandfather he never met.