LLB’S the gift that keeps on giving

CHANGING ROOMS

WEDNESDAY, CHANNEL 4 hhhh

I have a qualification in interior design, so I’m a sucker for property and makeover shows, remaining ever loyal to Kirstie and Phil even though I can’t keep on top of the number of programmes with George Clarke in the title (Remarkable Renovations, Old House New Home, Amazing Spaces, Ugly House To Lovely House... eventually he’ll have to settle on George Clarke’s Houses).

Last year saw a relaunch of old favourite and 90s hit Changing Rooms which, unexpectedly, I didn’t enjoy half as much as I thought I would. At the time I couldn’t work out why.

Now back for a second series, it’s suddenly clear: the premise of the show – neighbours decorating rooms in each other’s homes under the auspices of a professional designer – was lost under too much on-screen ‘talent’ jostling for attention and the result was even busier than Handy Andy knocking up a set of

MDF Regency-style wardrobes for a 1930s semi. Clearly, something had to give – and not just the waistband on Laurence Llewelynbowen’s (below, far left) leather trousers. It turned out to be presenter Anna Richardson.

Anna’s an engaging TV presence but there was no space for her on Changing Rooms which, let’s face it, already had its presenter: LLB’S ability to multi-task designing, powertooling, witty-voice-overing and leathertrousering is, after nearly 30 on-screen years, still the light-entertainment gift that keeps on giving, though telegenic new designer Whinnie – whose interiors are more like movie sets than real-life rooms – easily

wins on Instagrammability.