**Home Makeover in Wales: Helen Skelton Aids Couple’s Gruelling Renovation, As Strain Nearly Pushes Them to Breaking Point**
In a heartfelt episode of “Helen Skelton’s Forever Home,” a young couple’s journey to transform a historic Welsh cottage nearly saw their relationship buckle under the demanding pressure of home renovation combined with a dramatic lifestyle shift. The television special, which diverges from Skelton’s familiar “Morning Live” appearances, follows Jess and Colin, former Londoners, as they return to their roots in the Powys countryside amidst the daunting challenge of restoring a family home.
The couple, both originally hailing from Powys, made the significant decision to leave behind the frenetic pace of the capital for the open landscapes of Wales—a move inspired not just by their longing for home but also by a deeply personal family connection to the property. The compelling story unfolds with Skelton and architect Patrick Bradley lending expert hands as the couple faces spiralling costs, unexpected setbacks, and emotional strain.
What initially appeared to be a fortuitous return quickly unravelled into a test of endurance. As revealed in the one-hour pilot, the couple’s belief in fate was reinforced after discovering both Jess’s grandfather and Colin’s relatives had lived in the cottage—an astonishing link neither had known when they first met in London in 2020. “It’s not just getting out of London, it’s coming home,” Jess explained, highlighting the emotional gravitas attached to their mission.
However, their optimism was sorely tested. The pair’s original ambitions—an eight-month turnaround and a budget of £150,000—were swiftly overthrown by disaster. Early into the work, a burst pipe caused catastrophic flooding in the house, propelling the renovation costs far beyond expectations. Further compounding their trouble, the global surge in material costs post-pandemic and the effect of the war in Ukraine forced prices up by over 20 percent, stretching their finances dangerously thin.
With spiralling costs reaching an estimated final tally between £220,000 and £250,000, the project also extended out to three and a half gruelling years. Colin, an electrician by trade, assumed the role of project manager, attempting to keep their dreams afloat as their budget evaporated. Meanwhile, Jess, a solicitor, was juggling demanding legal exams and unable to take on as much of the restoration workload firsthand. The imbalance weighed on their relationship, with Colin candidly admitting that feelings of resentment crept in during the most stressful periods.
During the hardest phases of the renovation, Jess and Colin found themselves temporarily back under the same roof as Jess’s parents in Newtown, unable to reside in their half-finished home. Jess acknowledged the intensity of the struggle, recalling, “There were days where we both just didn’t want to do it. But now, looking back, it feels worth it.”
Helen Skelton, drawing on her personal experience with property restoration, offered both practical support and emotional reassurance. “Bringing old properties back to life is something I’ve always loved. Properties like this have stories to tell,” Skelton commented, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to play a part in their journey. She continued, “I know from my own renovation experience that the highs and lows are very real, so being part of Jess and Colin’s story was a privilege.”
Reflecting on their ordeal, Colin admitted, “Looking back, it wasn’t always fair to Jess. She was still working and offering support in different ways. The important part now is that we’re here, living together and finally able to enjoy the home we’ve created.”
Now, with the renovation hurdles behind them, the couple is able to savour the stability and peace they craved when deciding to leave London. Their journey stands as a poignant reminder of the emotional and financial toll such projects can carry—yet also the potential rewards when a house with history becomes a true home once again.
“Forever Home” is currently available for viewing on BBC Two and via BBC iPlayer, following its earlier appearance on BBC Northern Ireland, inviting audiences to witness not just a dramatic renovation, but a moving story of perseverance, family, and belonging.