BBC The Repair Shop star shares rare personal news minutes into episode as fans rush to support

WATCH HERE: BBC The Repair Shop star Steve Fletcher talks about his new glasses

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BBC

Olivia Gantzer

By Olivia Gantzer


Published: 02/10/2025

- 10:22

The restorer made the announcement during Wednesday's show

Paper conservator Angelina Bakalarou revealed her engagement to partner Simone during Wednesday's episode of The Repair Shop, displaying a gold ring featuring a red stone.

The 36-year-old specialist shared the personal news early in the programme when asked about recent developments in her life. "I'm engaged!" she exclaimed enthusiastically, showing her hand to display the distinctive jewellery.


Ms Bakalarou, who has been part of the restoration team since 2023, made the announcement in the Singleton barn alongside her colleagues.

The Greek conservator's revelation marks a rare personal disclosure on the programme, where experts typically focus on restoration projects rather than their private lives.

Angelina Bakalarou

The Repair Shop star Angelina Bakalarou announced her engagement

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BBC

The engagement announcement came just minutes into the broadcast, catching viewers by surprise with the unexpected personal update.

Ms Bakalarou joined the BBC programme after producers contacted her via email, inviting her to become part of the restoration team.

She has described the experience as "surreal", recounting how initial correspondence led to interviews and screen tests before her first appearance in the barn.

The paper restoration specialist has been residing in the UK for eleven years and maintains a home in London.

The Repair Shop

Angelina Bakalarou showed her engagement ring in the latest episode of The Repair Shop

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BBC

Since becoming a regular fixture on the programme, the conservator has established herself as an integral team member.

Her expertise in paper restoration has made her a familiar face to viewers who tune in to watch the craftspeople bring cherished items back to life.

Viewers responded warmly to the announcement across social media platforms, offering their best wishes to the newly engaged couple.

One fan wrote: "Congratulations on your engagement Angelina, I hope you have many happy and healthy years together," accompanied by a heart emoji.

Additional messages of support poured in throughout the evening. "Congratulations on your engagement," posted another viewer, whilst a third commented: "You two make a handsome couple, congratulations!"

The celebratory mood continued with further well-wishers joining the conversation. "Many congratulations to you both, wonderful news," shared one enthusiast, adding a champagne bottle emoji to mark the occasion.

The couple share a passion for international travel, having visited destinations including Doha and Sardinia in recent years.

Ms Bakalarou's London home, which she shares glimpses of on social media, features abundant plant life and various artworks throughout the property.

Angelina Bakalarou

Angelina Bakalarou has starred in The Repair Shop since 2023

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BBC

The paper conservator's Instagram account documents nearly 10 years of her relationship with Simone, offering followers insights into their life together.

Their shared adventures and domestic life in the capital have been chronicled through photographs spanning almost a decade.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Angelina Bakalarou

Angelina Bakalarou received congratulatory messages on social media

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BBC

Whilst the newly engaged couple have not disclosed specific wedding arrangements, Ms Bakalarou hinted that further details might emerge in future episodes.

The conservator's announcement represents a significant personal milestone for the expert who has become a cherished member of the restoration team.