Escape to the Country host surprised by guests' decision
Nicki Chapman, the beloved presenter of Escape to the Country, was utterly gobsmacked during her recent visit to a couple who had purchased their idyllic home on the show six years prior.
In the latest episode of I Escaped to the Country, aired on Monday (January 6), Nicki made a nostalgic trip back to Somerset to catch up with Sarah, a retired designer, and her husband Martin, who manages a chemical company.
The pair had previously fallen head over heels for a quaint 19th-century thatched cottage, with Sarah being moved to tears at the first glimpse of the "utterly charming" abode.
Brimming with excitement outside their dream home, Martin exclaimed: "I'm like a young child on Christmas morning about to rip open the paper and see what's inside."
Echoing his enthusiasm, Sarah remarked: "It's so amazing. It's just everything," reports Somerset Live. Originally converted in 1999, the barn's history stretches back to the 1800s and was listed for £495,000. After much deliberation, they put forward an offer, which was subsequently accepted.
READ MORE Colin Firth wells up as he opens up on real people behind Sky's Lockerbie [LATEST]
Fast forward six years, and upon Nicki's return, she was astounded by the incredible transformation the couple had achieved with the property. Stepping inside, she couldn't hide her amazement, exclaiming: "Wow, I'm Speechless. This is wonderful."
Sarah took the opportunity to show Nicki the changes, pointing out: "This was the garden room, and that was two separate utility areas with the wall. We did say we wanted a kitchen diner."
To which Nicki responded, visibly impressed: "You've certainly got that."
As they relaxed in the garden where their journey began in June 2018, Nicki was eager to delve into what other developments had unfolded since their paths last crossed.
Don't miss...
Vera's Brenda Blethyn choked up as she shares reason character wasn't killed [LATEST]
The Chase viewers distracted by contestant's 'stupid' habit throughout ITV show [LATEST]
Martin unveiled a series of unexpected twists in their life story, saying: "We moved in July, and shortly after moving in, I got the opportunity to relocate for work to the US, and it turned out to be a five-year deal."
He then confessed that the property was more of a fixer-upper than originally thought, as he elaborated: "Going to the States was an opportunity to get some much-needed funds to put into the renovation because it turned out to be more than we first imagined."
In response to whether they would have taken on the renovation project knowing what they know now, Sarah immediately answered: "Definitely. It's home."
Meanwhile, Martin showed slight hesitation, stating: "I'm not as emotional as Sarah. It might have made me hesitate, but I have to say we wouldn't change anything."
Escape to the Country airs weekdays from 3pm on BBC One and iPlayer
