Francesca Shillcock
The BBC presenter and craftsman revealed recently the fascinating story behind discovering his huge family...
The Repair Shop craftsman and presenter Jay Blades recently surprised fans when he revealed the fascinating story of discovering he is one of 26 children.
MORE: All there is to know about The Repair Shop presenter Jay Blades' family
The BBC TV star, who also narrates spin-off show Fixing Britain, expressed his astonishment that he has 25 siblings on his father's side of the family.
Speaking to the Mail on Sunday in April, the 50-year-old recalled the moment he first met his father, who was described as a "womaniser," when he was 21 years old.
Jay is a craftsman and presenter of The Repair Shop
The presenter also explained how his father's actions had an effect on his outlook as a father himself. "Growing up, I only knew of two families where the mum and dad were married. I loved the ladies I was with but things didn't work out and I moved on, even though I always stayed in touch with my children. I didn't want to be like my father."
MORE: Everything you need to know about The Repair Shop's Suzie Fletcher
READ: All you need to know about The Repair Shop spin-off show Fixing Britain
And while now the Repair Shop favourite is settled with his partner, Christine Goodman, Jay hasn't had a smooth sailing journey to happiness himself. Five years ago his marriage broke down and he left their family home – moving to Wolverhampton. The presenter has previously spoken candidly about "hitting rock bottom" and revealed the pressure was "too much".
Jay with his Repair Shop team
He told Radio Times: "I left the family home, gave the house to my ex-wife and just drove. I didn’t know where I was going. I slept in my old estate car for three or four days. I was in a really dark place."
He also bravely admitted: "If it had continued for 24 hours more, I don’t think I would be talking to you now." After his marriage broke down, Jay began a relationship with his current partner of four years, Christine. Christine works as a marketing specialist for consumer goods and retailers. The couple live in Wolverhampton.
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