The Repair Shop’s Steve Fletcher ‘amazes’ deaf guest with sign language skills

In a classic episode of The Repair Shop which aired on Wednesday evening, restorer Steve Fletcher “amazed” a deaf guest with his sign language skills.

During the BBC programme, father and son Herbert and Joshua Klein entered the famous barn with a mantle clock in the shape of a ship which needed some care.

The treasured item was a gift from Herbert’s late grandfather with whom he had an incredible bond as a child.

Herbert was born deaf and his grandad would communicate by gesturing and pointing while he’d lip read.

The clock had not worked for five decades but horologist Steve was determined to restore it to its former glory.

Steve worked his magic on the clock and was excited to be reunited with Herbert and his son to show them the finished item.

Presenter Jay Blades asked the men how they were, with Joshua translating for his father.

Herbert said: “It’s like embracing my granddad when I get this back.”

He was moved to tears when the item was unveiled by Jay and felt it was “so beautiful” thanks to The Repair Shop team.

Steve, who was skilled at British sign language, said: “I’ve put a new battery mechanism into the clock.”

“Will [Kirk] polished and lacquered the wood,” Steve explained as Herbert admired the craftsmanship.

Herbert said he wanted the world to see the clock and thanked Steve for practising his sign language before hugging the item.

“I am amazed at your sign language,” he signed before Steve replied. “Happy sailing.”

Viewers flocked to Twitter following the emotional moment, with one user writing: “#Therepairshop WOW THE SAIL CLOCK, wow stunning!!! And Steve’s sign language is fantastic!!”

Andrew Jazzie shared a picture of the clock and wrote: “There have been some wondrous moments on The Repair Shop but that is up there with the greatest ever.”

Andy Mitchelson replied: “It was a beautiful moment. Got me thinking about my grandad.”

Vince remarked: “Absolute magic. Steve Fletcher is a genius.”

The Repair Shop episodes are available to watch on BBC iPlayer.