Latest news with #EscapetotheCountry
Wales Online
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
BBC Escape to the Country host rushes to support buyer as they break down in tears
BBC Escape to the Country host rushes to support buyer as they break down in tears Briony May Williams was on a mission to help a couple buy their first home together during the latest instalment of BBC's Escape to the Country Escape to the Country: Guest refuses to buy any of the houses Escape to the Country's Briony May Williams was quick to comfort a buyer as emotions were at an all time high just minutes into the viewing. During Tuesday's (June 3) episode of the BBC hit show, the host was on a mission to help a couple buy their first home together. Barry and partner Pauline want to make a big move from Romford, Essex and find their dream home in Herefordshire, so they can finally get their collection of potted plants in the ground. Time is of the essence for the pair as Pauline admitted that she is currently living out of a suitcase after moving into Barry's house. The couple, who met at a dance 13 years ago had a hefty budget of £500,00 for a detached property that has visual appeal and they're not keen on barn conversions. Barry and Pauline want to make a big move from Romford, Essex and find their dream home in Herefordshire (Image: BBC ) Article continues below BBC Call The Midwife star Helen George lands new TV role on rival channel READ MORE: They wanted three bedrooms to accommodate family and friends who come down to visit. It was important that it has at least a quarter of an acre for their plants and a location within a village. Speaking about why they wanted to make the big move, Barry explained: 'We think that it's going to be a new start for both of us. Although we've lived together, it's not the same as having our own house.' Pauline added: 'We've got over 400 pots in our garden. I just can't resist buying plants and I can't wait to put these plants in the ground.' Briony set up several property viewings and made sure they had everything Vanessa was looking for; however it was clear that the mystery property blew them away. The couple had a hefty budget of £500,00 for a detached property (Image: BBC ) The property in question was a 19th-century barn conversion which came with an open-plan kitchen-diner as well as an inglenook fireplace in the sitting room. It also has three bedrooms as well as a large garden space. Walking into the kitchen, Pauline couldn't contain her emotions as she put her hands over her face and began to tear up. Briony wastes no time offering her support as she asked: 'Are you feeling a bit emotional?' Realising how overwhelmed she was, the BBC star embraced her with a hug and asked: 'Are you ok?' Pauline admitted: 'Oh, this is lovely. I love this.' Barry jumped in: 'It is bang-on, isn't it?' Pauline continued: 'I can't believe all this light, overlooking the garden. Everywhere you look from the window, it's what we've been dreaming of.' Briony May Williams was quick to comfort a buyer as emotions were at an all time high just minutes into the viewing (Image: BBC ) Worried about missing out on the property, Pauline was certain that it might be over their budget however Briony left them speechless when she revealed that it was on the market for a guide price of £475,000. In disbelief, Pauline shouted: 'No! I don't believe that.' However the couple had to act fast as Briony warned: 'As you can imagine, there's a lot of interest in this house and offers have started coming in already.' Article continues below She added: 'So just be aware of that. If you wanted this house, you'd have to move quite quickly.' In the end, the couple revealed that they have put an offer in for the house however they're still waiting to hear back from the estate agent. Escape to the Country airs weekdays on BBC One and iPlayer
Wales Online
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
BBC Escape to the Country couple 'confused' after Jules Hudson announcement
BBC Escape to the Country couple 'confused' after Jules Hudson announcement Escape to the Country house hunters Tracey and Jason were left gobsmacked by the price of their dream home Escape to the Country host Jules Hudson helped a couple find their dream home in Norfolk (Image: BBC ) An Escape to the Country couple was left gobsmacked upon discovering the price tag of their dream abode. In Wednesday's (April 30) episode of the beloved BBC programme, presenter Jules Hudson helped three generations of a family find their ideal rural retreat in Norfolk. Tracey and her husband Jason, along with their three children Daisy, Callum, and Eva, Tracey's mum Elaine, and the family dog Buster, were planning to relocate from Southeast London. The couple decided it was the perfect time for a complete lifestyle overhaul as John is due to retire from the police force at the end of the year, and their two eldest children are at crucial stages in their education. With a budget of £800,000, they were seeking a four-bedroom detached property. It was essential that the house either had an annex for Tracey's mum or the potential to build one, reports Cambridgeshire Live. Escape to the Country host Jules Hudson helped a couple find their dream home in Norfolk (Image: BBC ) They also desired between one and a half to two acres of land to accommodate a Shetland pony, a requirement that Tracey was adamant about. Jules arranged viewings for several properties, but the mystery house was clearly the standout favourite, immediately capturing the couple's hearts. This impressive Grade II-listed property, situated in Scottow, Norfolk, boasted a vaulted kitchen-breakfast room, a sophisticated lounge, and three additional reception rooms. Furthermore, it featured six bedrooms, including a stunning master suite, a self-contained annexe, and a spacious garden. They had a budget of £800,000 available for a four-bedroom detached house (Image: BBC ) The TV presenter enhanced the excitement by disclosing that the property was within their financial reach. He remarked, "Right, then, let's think about your budget of £800,000 and how far it will go." Jason speculated, "Think it's over 800. 825? ! Tracey jumped in: " Tracey interjected with her own estimate: "I'm going to go £850,000." Jules astonished the pair when he announced, "It's on the market for... £750,000." Stunned by the revelation, Jason exclaimed, "Wow. Are you kidding?" Tracey declared confidently, "We'll have that one." Tracey and husband Jason were making the big move from Southeast London to Norfolk (Image: BBC ) Tracey couldn't contain herself as she repeated, "Wow! Wow, wow, wow." Jason confessed, "A lot of stuff in this house and about this house would be on our 'not' wish list. Thatched roof, beams, period property listed." Tracey conceded: "It has all of those things and we love it. Now I'm really confused." Ultimately, it was evident that they had thoroughly fallen for the house. They decided to put forward an offer once their children and Tracey's mother also expressed their endorsement. Article continues below Jules later shared the joyful news that their offer had been accepted and that they were poised to move in just in time for the new academic year to commence. Escape to the Country airs weekdays from 3pm on BBC One and iPlayer
Wales Online
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Escape to the Country host issues warning after buyer's disappointing house update
Escape to the Country host issues warning after buyer's disappointing house update Escape to the Country host Nicki Chapman was left lost for words as a first-time buyer shared her reaction to a property on the BBC show ETTC: Host reveals buyer didn't make an offer in time Escape to the Country made a welcome return to TV screens on Tuesday (27 May), with presenter Nicki Chapman joining a first-time buyer in Shropshire to help her find the perfect rural retreat. Natalie, 30, who had been living with her parents in Birmingham for a few years, was eager to start her life in the countryside and invest in her first home. With a budget of £520,000 at her disposal, Natalie had a clear idea of what she was looking for in a property - at least two bedrooms, a home office, a dog-friendly garden, picturesque views, and a dash of character. Accompanied by her mother Ruth, Natalie embarked on a property search with Nicki, who showcased four potential homes for her consideration. The first property, with an asking price of £345,000, featured three bedrooms, a secret garden, and a charming village setting. While Natalie found it to be "homely", she was disappointed by the limited upstairs space. Natalie was joined by her mum Ruth on Escape to the Country (Image: BBC ) Article continues below Wrexham star speaks out on transfer plans months after dad called out Ryan Reynolds READ MORE: The second property, located in Grinshill and priced at £500,000, boasted three bedrooms, a low-maintenance garden, and a rural location. However, Natalie was less impressed by the lack of views and small garden, feeling that these aspects had "let it down", reports Cheshire Live. Fortunately, the third property turned out to be the ideal match for Natalie's criteria. Listed at £495,000, the semi-detached Victorian cottage offered three bedrooms, three reception rooms, stunning views, and a rural location close to a town. Natalie admitted there was "nothing" she would change about the property, adding that it would "be an amazing first home". Her reaction left host Nicki speechless, as she admitted: "I don't know what to say!" and branded Natalie's words "uplifting". Later, a fourth abode was showcased to Natalie, yet she felt it required excessive renovation and wasn't keen on embarking on such an ambitious undertaking. Nicki Chapman on Escape to the Country (Image: BBC ) Nicki then caught up with Natalie and Ruth to find out if any of the properties had fully captivated Natalie's interest. She revealed the third house was a firm favourite, stating: "I'm going to be booking a second viewing!" Article continues below While Natalie did head for a second viewing, Nicki revealed that she unfortunately lost out on the home to another buyer. This led Nicki to conclude the episode with a cautionary note for Escape to the Country viewers. "Someone else got in there first and had an offer accepted. It just shows you, how fast houses are moving these days," the presenter commented. Escape to the Country airs on weekdays on BBC One at 3pm
Wales Online
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
BBC Springwatch fans distracted by 'silver fox' Iolo Williams' new look as show returns
BBC Springwatch fans distracted by 'silver fox' Iolo Williams' new look as show returns BBC Springwatch has returned to our screens for its 20th series with hosts Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams - who was sporting a beard Wildlife series Springwatch has returned to the BBC celebrating its 20th anniversary with presenters Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan leading the way. Broadcasting from a new location in the Peak District, the duo kicked off the first episode on Monday, May 26 showcasing a montage featuring highlights and past presenters such as Kate Humble and Bill Oddie, harking back to the show's inception in 2005. Donning a bucket hat, Chris Packham enthused viewers with a slew of Oasis references during his welcome speech: "You will want to be here now as we are going to bring you the Champagne supernova of wildlife TV starting tonight." But it was Welsh presenter Iolo Williams and his new appearance that really got fans talking as he chatted to Chris and Michaela in a live link from a rain-drenched Belfast. Iolo Williams unveiled a new look on BBC Springwatch (Image: BBC ) Escape to the Country turns emotional as guest breaks down in tears READ MORE: Sporting a new grey beard, he told viewers: "My beard and I, we're going to take you on a Northern Ireland road trip," then went on to discuss the various locations and wildlife he would be featuring in the upcoming weeks, like foxes and seals. Article continues below "So Chris and Michaela we have got three wildlife-packed weeks coming up for you," he concluded, passing back to the Peak District where Chris was eager to hear Michaela's thoughts on Iolo's fresh look. Iolo without his beard (Image: BBC ) "I know, more rain, more hair - I like it. I almost think you look quite handsome actually Iolo," Michaela shared. While Chris humorously added: "I think he looks like a Norwegian resistance fighter in the Second World War personally." Viewers promptly took to X to share their opinions with one writing: "Liking the beard!" Another posted: "Loving @IoloWilliams2's beard." And one joked: "Silver fox sighting on #Springwatch already, Iolo definitely needs to keep the beard." BBC Springwatch has returned for its 20th anniversary with Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan (Image: BBC ) Meanwhile, fans also rushed to comment on the show in general, with audiences sharing their elation over its return on platform X, reports Gloucestershire Live. One fan expressed: "Springwatch at 20! Absolutely love this show! Great recap of the start and all of the amazing presenters that the show has had!" Meanwhile, another said: "Springwatch is 20 - and I think I've watched every series." Other comments included: "Wonderful #springwatch is back - @ChrisPackham4 and @michaelastracha are national treasures." Another viewer's post read: "Lovely to have #Springwatch back on our screens. And from the #PeakDistrict too!" Also making waves:"Ssshhhh it's finally #springwatch time! Welcome back." Fans were quick to notice the Oasis theme Chris was channeling. One commented: "@ChrisGPackham clearly on an Oasis kick tonight." Article continues below Another observed: "Oasis songs then Chris?" A third spotted: "Sneaky Oasis references in the first 10 minutes." And another noted: "Some might say that Chris is naming Oasis songs." Springwatch is on BBC Two weeknights at 8pm
Wales Online
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Escape to the Country turns emotional as guest breaks down in tears
Escape to the Country turns emotional as guest breaks down in tears Escape to the Country host Steve Brown was quick to comfort one emotional guest on the BBC show Escape to the Country presenter Steve Brown was on hand to offer comfort to an emotional participant in Monday's episode. The latest show saw Steve, age 43, meet with mother and daughter duo Jane and Bella. Jane, who has fond memories of growing up in South Devon until she turned 18, was looking to move back to the area. With a budget set at £425,000, her wishlist for the new home included two bedrooms minimum, an office space, a compact garden, off-street parking, proximity to an active local church, and a location within walking stride of a large village or small town. The show documented their journey as they viewed various properties, and during discussions about what this momentous change signified, notably since Jane was embarking on it alone, sentiments ran high. Escape to the Country's Steve Brown was quick to comfort one emotional guest on Monday's show (Image: BBC ) Article continues below Bella heaped accolades on her mother, cheekily remarking: "I think having the painful slog of raising me and my sister probably made her strong enough that moving down here it's a quick one! The main thing is packing, that's the worst bit! Hate packing!", reports Devon Live. Steve probed if Jane considered the move a "big leap", resulting in Jane being visibly moved to tears. Reacting with sensitivity, Steve comforted her by saying: "Sorry, I don't mean to upset you!" to which Jane reassured him by replying: "No, no, you haven't!" Jane, touched by Bella's words, said: "It's hearing what Bella's saying!" which prompted a humorous response from Bella: "Sorry, I'll say horrible things now!" Reflecting on her decision to relocate, Jane spoke about seeking a fresh start and excitement for the next phase of her life: "It's a fresh start, I'm looking for something new and a new adventure and a new chapter. I just turned 60, now's the time to do it!" Later in the show, both Jane and Bella were blown away by the mystery house (Image: BBC ) Later, both were captivated by the enigmatic mystery house, charmed by its exquisite stained glass windows and classic architectural features. Jane was moved to tears by the property, confessing: "I'll suck it in! It just looks beautiful and it's different and it's got parking!" Upon discovering the asking price was £400,000, well within her budget, Jane's excitement grew as she envisioned the extra funds for personal touches. Overwhelmed with emotion, Jane couldn't hold back: "Here come the tears, tears of happiness!" Article continues below When it came time to deliberate over the options, Jane placed the mystery house at the top of her list, intending to get to know the area better before putting forward an offer. She expressed her potential love for the town, saying if it suited her, she would "really love it", and shared her vision of a joyful life there, prompting Steve to respond warmly: "That is music to my ears!" Escape to the Country continues on weekdays at 3pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
