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Episode 6

Episode 6 of 25

The Bear Ladies fix an iconic mascot from the 1966 World Cup, Suzie repairs a well-travelled leather hat, and Pete and Sonnaz bring the music back to a battered old washboard.

First into the barn are June, Vivian and Jim from Oldham, carrying an extraordinary homemade washboard, which has served for decades as the centrepiece of the Barnhowlers Ukulele Club. Built by founding member George Wyatt, known affectionately as Magic George, the ingenious percussion instrument is a collection of whistles, horns, bells and washboard rhythms, and it became the beating heart of the group he created in 2008. But years of enthusiastic performances have left the instrument unstable and unplayable, while the custom gloves used to play it are falling apart. While musical instrument restorer Pete tackles the washboard’s mechanical problems, upholsterer Sonnaz gets to work recreating George’s unique thimble-tipped gloves. Can they restore this one-of-a-kind musical tribute and keep George’s memory playing on for future generations?

Next through the doors are Steph and her daughter Alison, carrying a rather fragile piece of football history – a much-loved World Cup Willie mascot bought by Steph at the 1966 World Cup. Having attended all the matches at Wembley with her future husband Chris, Steph took the little lion everywhere with her, even carrying him in her pocket as England marched towards their famous victory. Tragically, Chris died just months after Alison was born, making World Cup Willie far more than a souvenir – he has become a treasured reminder of a love story cut heartbreakingly short and the only tangible link Alison has to her father. But after decades spent sitting on a damp windowsill, Willie’s face has deteriorated, his limbs have weakened, and his future is looking uncertain. It’s down to teddy bear experts Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch to restore this cherished mascot, preserving both his character and the precious memories he represents. Can they return World Cup Willie to his former glory in time to inspire another England triumph?

Release date:

59 minutes

On TV

Wed 24 Jun 2026 20:00

Credits

Role Contributor
Expert Will Kirk
Expert Sonnaz Nooranvary
Expert Pete Woods
Expert Alasdair Mackay
Expert Dominic Chinea
Expert Suzie Fletcher
Expert Amanda Middleditch
Expert Julie Tatchell
Production Manager Laura Fisher
Production Manager Jade Kitson
Series Producer Shane Normoyle
Executive Producer Hannah Lamb
Executive Producer Emma Walsh
Executive Producer Sandy Watson
Production Company Ricochet Ltd

Broadcast

  • Wed 24 Jun 2026 20:00

Take Part

If you have a treasured possession that needs restoring, please get in touch.