Emotions ran high on the latest episode of The Repair Shop as Teddy Bear Ladies Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell met a man named Ian, who brought in a large doll that was falling apart. The item, around 100 years old, had belonged to his late sister, Denise.
Ian explained that the doll was given to Denise when she was eight months old. Describing his sister as 'generous and kind' and sharing that she had learning difficulties, he said the item was referred to as 'The Doll' while they were growing up.
A tragic loss
Ian revealed that Denise died at 24 after a road accident, just two days after the pair had argued. One of the BBC experts responded: "I'm so sorry, that's really tough, isn't it?"
The doll remained in Denise's bedroom for a while before being moved to the loft, conditions that are not ideal for a vintage item. When Ian rediscovered it, he cried and wondered who could repair it to a suitable condition.
Restoration and emotional reveal
Ian hoped the experts could fix the legs so they would move again, give the doll new hair and fingers, and provide a dress resembling the one he remembered from childhood. The pair said they felt 'honoured' to work on the item.
For the reveal, Ian brought his partner Nicola for support, admitting he was 'very nervous'. Seeing the doll for the first time, he was highly emotional and praised the 'amazing' work, confessing his sister would have been 'overwhelmed' as it was her life.
Closure at last
Outside the barn, Ian told the camera that the doll symbolises closure for him. He said: "The doll symbolises closure for me. My sister and I had a really horrific argument before she passed, and I never had the chance to apologise. So, that's been eating away at me. But now the doll is repaired, I just feel like that chapter is now closed and I can move on."
The Repair Shop is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
