23rd Oct 2026

Construction tutor Barry joins the DIY SOS team

Construction tutor Barry Mason with Gabrielle Blackman on DIY SOS

Telford College construction tutor Barry Mason will feature on the TV show DIY SOS next week as an army of tradespeople transform a West Midlands family’s home.

Barry signed up to help the team on a project in Bewdley to support a family whose 11-year-old son lives with complex medical conditions including tuberous sclerosis, autism, and epilepsy.

It’s not the first time he has been part of the DIY SOS team – in fact this is the eighth project he has worked on with Nick Knowles and the team.

One of the previous tasks was in Manchester when princes William and Harry helped to turn a derelict street into homes for ex-service personnel.

Barry, who teaches construction at Telford College’s Wellington campus, also wrote his name into the Guinness Book of Records in 2009 when, with one of his colleagues, he became the world’s fastest wallpaper hanger.

Barry Mason on DIY SOS
Barry Mason on DIY SOS

For this latest mission – described as one of the ‘toughest ever’ by Nick Knowles –  the DIY SOS team was called in to create a new home that will improve quality of life for young Nathan, as well as his parents and older sister Keira.

Barry said: “The programme is about far more than building or renovating properties, it’s about transforming lives and bringing communities together for a common purpose.

“As an educator, I’m always telling our students about the real impact their skills can have, and these projects are an incredible opportunity to see teamwork, compassion and practical expertise making a genuine difference to people who need support.

Barry Mason on DIY SOS with the show's legendary electrician Billy Byrne
Barry with the show’s legendary electrician Billy Byrne

“College education is about preparing people for the workplace, but it’s also about helping them become responsible, engaged members of their community.

“Seeing everyone pull together, and witnessing the positive outcome of these projects first-hand is so inspiring, and it is a pleasure to be able to give up time to help make a difference.”

  • The DIY SOS episode featuring Barry will be aired on BBC1 at 8pm on Tuesday October 27.

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