DIY SOS to be 'rested' next year to save money, BBC says

The long-running home renovation TV series DIY SOS will be "rested" next year, the BBC has said.

Sources at the corporation denied reports in the Sun newspaper the programme would be axed as part of a plan to make savings. Instead, it will be replaced by a spin-off show featuring highlights from past episodes.

Presented by Nick Knowles, DIY SOS sees a team transform the homes of families who are facing severe illness, disability, bereavement or building disasters.

It was first broadcast in 1999 and is currently airing its 35th series on BBC One and iPlayer.

The decision comes during the corporation's drive to save £500m over three years. It has already cancelled several well-known TV shows including Blankety Blank, Celebrity Mastermind and Live At The Apollo.

A BBC spokesperson said: "In light of the BBC's savings challenges we have taken the decision to rest DIY SOS in 2027 and commission a new spin-off show instead from producers South Shore.

"DIY SOS Rebuilt My Life will revisit successes from the show's past and expand the brand on the BBC in a more cost-effective way next year."