Nick Knowles will temporarily step down from presenting the BBC's DIY SOS for the upcoming Children in Need special in September. Comedian Rhod Gilbert will take his place for the one-off episode, following a conflict of interest over Knowles' involvement in a Shreddies advertising campaign.
The BBC's editorial guidelines prohibit presenters from appearing in promotional work that mimics their on-air roles. Knowles, who plays a builder in the Shreddies adverts, is therefore unable to host the special. He is expected to return to the show in 2022 once the campaign concludes.
Rhod Gilbert expressed his excitement about stepping in, stating, "It’s a great honour to step in to Nick’s enormous steel toe-capped boots and be involved in Children in Need." He added he was looking forward to working with the DIY SOS team on a significant project in Hull.
Nick Knowles endorsed the decision, tweeting, "Rhod is a top bloke and I’m sure will do a great job. I encourage you all to get behind this year’s Big Build." The special will see the team transform an empty field into an adventure camping site for St Michael’s Youth Project in Hull.
The BBC is calling for volunteers and donations of materials such as timber, aggregates, and camping equipment. Those interested can email diysoshull@bbc.co.uk. The episode aims to improve physical and emotional health for children and young people in the area.
