BBC The Repair Shop guest in tears over treasured item's 'beautiful' restoration

In an emotional episode of The Repair Shop tonight, a guest was overcome with emotion and shed tears when she saw the "beautiful" restoration of her treasured item.

The Wednesday (April 16) instalment of the much-loved programme introduced viewers to Instructor Ena and her star student Ellen, as they brought in a cherished, life-size model horse named Hector, which serves as an invaluable educational tool at a riding school for individuals with disabilities.

Over the years, Hector had fallen into disrepair, with visible signs of wear and tear from extensive use, particularly helping students learn how to confidently approach a horse and put on its tack.

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As a pivotal asset to the riding school, and especially significant to Ellen who has a disability impacting her hearing and balance, Hector's restoration was of great importance.

Craft experts Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell embraced the challenge of repairing Hector, calling upon Dominic Chinea to level out Hector's hooves using fiberglass, reports .

The 'bear ladies' then tackled his threadbare mane and fur, and conjured a gentle way to enhance his appearance to be more approachable.

Following a busy day's work, they completed the repairs, and it was hardly surprising that Ena and Ellen were visibly moved by the wonderful sight of their beloved and now unrecognizable steed upon reuniting with him.

Arriving at the barn, Julie greeted them with curiosity: "Have you missed him?" To which Ena acknowledged: "Yes. Everyone has missed him."

Julie probed further: "What are you hoping we have done." Which led Ellen to share: "I would just like him to be less scary."

Upon setting eyes on the horse, Ena was so touched that she was brought to tears, admiringly remarking: "Wow. Oh my goodness he definitely looks friendly and he actually looks so real."

As she gently stroked its mouth, Ena went on: "He is actually so soft and you've put a lovely colour dye on him. His eyes are beautiful."

Overwhelmed with emotion, Ena added through teary eyes: "Ladies, thank you, and his feet have been fixed."

Julie highlighted the craftsmanship involved, saying: "It was Dom who fixed his feet." To which Ena responded: "Well, he looks like a million dollars and I'm just loving the markings you have put on him. They are so real looking."

Amanda chimed in, expressing a sentiment felt by all: "We've all fallen in love with Hector and thank you so much for trusting us with him."

The Repair Shop airs from 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer