Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell, known as the Teddy Bear Ladies, are a firm favourite with viewers of BBC show The Repair Shop. They form part of a nationwide team of expert craftspeople who restore cherished family heirlooms with deep sentimental significance for their owners.
How They Started
Amanda and Julie commenced their partnership at their teddy bear establishment in the New Forest in 2006. Utilising their combined needlework expertise, they also conducted workshops. Before long, they were receiving numerous requests for repairs and restorations. Shortly afterwards, they transitioned their enterprise to focus exclusively on restorations.
Ricochet, a television production company, contacted them before The Repair Shop's pilot series launched, enquiring whether they'd be interested in participating in a new programme. Julie remarked: "We loved the ethos behind the format of the show." The rest is history.
Book Deal and Emotional Moments
Amanda and Julie secured a publishing agreement with Walker Books two years ago, collaborating on a children's title named Bartie Bristle. Announcing their "exciting news" via their shared Instagram account, the post described the book: "Set in a village in the heart of the Old Woods, the magical world of the teddy bear shop and the heart-warming stories of Bartie and his teddy bear friends will captivate children and parents alike."
Earlier this month, the duo discussed how recording The Repair Shop can prove emotionally challenging for them. During a conversation with Alan Titchmarsh on his ITV programme, Amanda admitted she often cries away from the cameras, suspecting viewers might rather not see the specialists getting tearful. She further disclosed her technique of hugging guests after revealing restored items as a way of controlling her feelings. Julie added: "You could see I was about to lose it, I think it was quite clear."
Upcoming Special Episode
On Wednesday, June 24, the pair will appear in a standalone Repair Shop special where audiences will witness them restore a plush toy of the 1966 England mascot World Cup Willie purchased by owner Steph during the tournament. The Repair Shop is available on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
