The first series of DIY SOS started on 7 October 1999. The programme began with the aim of giving householders the chance to have their bodged DIY jobs finished by a team of professionals. Viewers voted each week to choose the most deserving case. Over its lifetime the show has doubled in length and grown in scope. It now produces truly life-changing building projects, like the rebuilt Dale Youth Boxing Club near Grenfell Tower and the Canada Street renovation for ex-servicemen, which featured the involvement of Princes William and Harry.
Lowri Turner and Nick Knowles presented the first DIY SOS. Knowles was aided by Billy Byrne, Julian Perryman, Chris Frediani and – later- Mick Miller. The banter between the builders – a bit like a squabbling family – provided some humour which contrasted with the moving scenes that inevitably accompanied the reveal at the end of each programme.
DIY SOS became more ambitious from 2010 and added Big Build to its name. By involving local tradespeople, who volunteered their time and materials, it was able to complete much bigger projects to the benefit of the whole community. Knowles and his team have helped inspire many community projects like Band of Builders and Hull for Heroes.
October anniversaries
Winston Churchill's first wartime broadcast
1 October 1939
Songs of Praise
1 October 1961
Live and Kicking
2 October 1993
Points of View
2 October 1961
