The Repair Shop’s Jay Blades struggles to speak as he admits he ‘broke down’ during mental health battle
JAY Blades struggled to speak as the star revealed he ‘broke down’ during his mental health battle.
The Repair Shop foreman, 54, appeared on ITV’s Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh.
During the live interview, the presenter opened up to Alan about his mental health challenges- and the importance of a family unit.
The gardener had asked Jay about his experiences with mental health and what helped him through.
Jay replied that partially, he had been helped by the “love” he’d received fom a family in Wolverhampton, who had been there for him during the difficult times.
He said: “They’re still supporting me to this day.
“Gerald Bailey is classified as my brother.
“He said to me – “, Jay began before becoming overcome with emotion.
The presenter added: “Sorry about that.
“He said to me seven years ago that he’s going to look after me and support me until I’m back on my feet.”
Alan remarked: “People helping people.
“That’s what you’ve always done, and now you’ve found someone to help you.”
Continuing further, Jay outlined his gratitude to Gerald’s family for entering his life.
He revealed he even calls his friend’s parents Mum and Dad.
As well as making regular Saturday visits, the furniture restorer added how his “second Mum” checked on his progress each week.
Previously, the star opened up about his struggles during an appearance on The One Show.
The Repair Shop experts
The Repair Shop premiered in 2017 and sees family heirlooms restored for their owners by numerous experts with a broad range of specialisms. Jay Blades acts as the foreman, with a talented team at work in the restoration process. Let's take a look at some of them.
- Jay Blades: Foreman of The Repair Shop and Furniture Restorer
- Will Kirk: Carpenter, Cabinet Maker and Wood Painter
- Steve Fletcher: Clock Restorer
- Suzie Fletcher: Saddle Maker and Leather Worker
- Dominic Chinea: Metal Worker and Signs Restorer
- Sonnaz Nooranvary: Upholstery Restorer
- Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell: Soft-toy Restorers
- Kirsten Ramsay: Ceramics Conservator
- Lucia Scalisi: Painting Conservator
- Brenton West: Antique Photography Specialist and Silversmith
He bravely discussed his mental heath battle, as well as how he hit rock bottom after losing his business and splitting from his wife.
Jay shared: “The biggest repair job we have done on The Repair Shop is me.
“The community has helped me get back to my normal self because five or six years ago I felt down and I hit rock bottom.”
The Repair Shop airs on BBC One.