Beloved BBC renovation show DIY SOS is back on screens this Friday (October 3), with an emotional episode that sees the team descend on Leicester to transform the life of a remarkable young girl.
The new series kicks off with the story of eight-year-old Isla, from Aylestone, who lives with a rare genetic condition called Mandibuloacral Dysplasia — a disorder that affects bone development and causes premature aging of vital organs. As her condition increasingly impacts her independence, Isla’s family reached out for help to make their home more accessible.
Picture: Ian Hodgkinson with Isla
The DIY SOS team, led by presenter Nick Knowles and designer Gaby Blackman, answered the call. Backed by an incredible 160 volunteers — including tradespeople, suppliers, and an army of local supporters — the crew worked tirelessly to transform Isla’s semi-detached home into a space that will give her greater independence and comfort.
More than 1,000 people applied to help, but it was a carefully selected group of volunteers who came together to deliver the ambitious build. The family requested simple but life-changing adaptations, such as lowering light switches and door handles, and installing a downstairs bathroom for Isla.
Local construction hero and DIY SOS regular Ian Hodgkinson returned as on-screen project manager. Based in Derby, Ian praised the efforts of those involved:
“This project isn’t just about bricks and mortar — it’s about people coming together to change lives,” he said. “Isla is at the heart of this build, but it also showcases the power of teamwork in the construction industry. What we achieved in just over a week is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Joining the core team this season are new faces, gardener Ashley Edwards and woodworker Radha Siyver, alongside returning favourites electrician Billy Byrne and plasterer Chris Frediani — affectionately known as the “Purple Shirts”.
Presenter Nick Knowles said he’s thrilled to bring the show back to audiences: “I’m so excited to have DIY SOS back on our screens. This series reminds us that, across the country, there are countless generous and skilled people willing to step up and help when it matters most.”
The new season will highlight the unsung heroes of Britain’s building industry — from bricklayers to decorators — showcasing the collective effort that goes into creating life-changing renovations.
Beyond his work on-screen, Ian Hodgkinson remains a passionate advocate for the construction sector, championing apprenticeships and stronger industry ties.
“DIY SOS proves what’s possible when people pull together,” he said. “It’s a privilege to be part of something that not only transforms homes, but uplifts communities and inspires the whole sector.”
The first episode of the new DIY SOS series airs on Friday, October 3 on BBC One.
