Inside The Repair Shop duo Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch's close relationship

Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell have been a staple on the BBC One show, helping repair those who bring their beloved toys to the barn

The Repair Shop, a popular BBC show, boasts an array of skilled experts, including the renowned Teddy Bear Ladies - Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell.

These two have become a mainstay on the BBC One programme, offering their expertise to those who bring their cherished toys for restoration at the barn.

Julie, a passionate advocate for preserving traditional toy-making techniques, specialises in restoring soft toys and vintage bears. She joined forces with Amanda Middleditch in 2006 to launch Bear it in Mind, a restoration enterprise based in the New Forest.

Aside from their frequent appearances on TV and radio, they host a podcast titled 'Bearly Begun', maintain a lively presence on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, and have even co-authored a successful children's book.

But how closely related are these two?

Are the Teddy Bear Ladies related?

The pair are not related but in fact just close friends. The pair have been friends and colleagues for over 15 years and are passionate about their work.

Their Instagram account offers a glimpse into the various restorations undertaken by Julie and Amanda. However, due to the high demand for their services, they are currently unable to accept more restoration projects and are directing potential clients to their protege, Charlotte Stubbs.

She owns Teddy Bear Repair and Care and is still open for work.

Thanks to their work, Julie and Amanda grabbed the BBC's attention and earned an invite to The Repair Shop. Speaking to Auntie Beeb, Julie said: "We were approached by Ricochet, ahead of the pilot series, to ask if we would be interested in being part of a new TV show.

"We loved the ethos behind the format of the show."

The talented duo, who breathe new life into cherished teddies and toys at The Barn, have also penned a delightful children's book titled 'Bartie Bristle'. Launched on June 6, the story is set in a quaint teddy bear shop and follows the escapades of Bartie and his furry companions.

The Teddy Bear Ladies announced on their social platforms: "Set in a village in the heart of the Old Woods, the magical world of the teddy bear shop and the heart-warming stories of Bartie and his teddy bear friends will captivate children and parents alike."

"Julie and Amanda began writing short stories all about Bartie Bristle and the other favourite toys for the children that came to their shop, with Julie reimagined as Mrs T and Amanda as Rose."