By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Nick Knowles has revealed that the BBC's long-running renovation show DIY SOS will never return in its current form after the corporation decided to shelve the programme amid budget cuts.
BBC announces shelving and spin-off
The presenter, who has hosted the show since its inception in 1999, said the BBC informed him that if the series returns it would be in a "smaller and more cost-effective" manner. Knowles, 64, expressed doubt that the format could work on a reduced scale, noting that the show's large-scale builds for families in need cannot be replicated cheaply.
Knowles' emotional farewell
In a tearful Instagram video, Knowles called the decision "the end of an era" and thanked the 26,000 volunteers, tradespeople and suppliers who have worked on the show over 26 years. He later appeared on ITV's This Morning, admitting the news was "a little bit emotional" and that he did not think any future project would match the experience of DIY SOS.
Budget cuts drive decision
The BBC's move is part of a drive to save £500m over the next three years. Other programmes axed outright include the gameshows Blankety Blank and Celebrity Mastermind and the stand-up series Live at the Apollo. The final episode of DIY SOS's 35th series aired on 27 October.
Petition shows public support
A Change.org petition urging the BBC to keep the show on air has attracted 43,000 signatures, many from people who have featured on the programme. Petition organiser David Claydon described DIY SOS as "a beacon of hope for those struggling in difficult circumstances." The BBC said it would instead commission a spin-off titled DIY SOS Rebuilt My Life to revisit past successes in a more cost-effective format.
