SERC Electricians Volunteer for DIYSOS

Two Lecturers from SERC with over 60 years’ experience between them, are donating their skills and expertise to a build for the popular BBC One series DIYSOS: The Big Build, which is taking place in Bangor from 18 to 28 June.

Steven Donnelly, Electrical Lecturer and Mark Kerr, Electrical Lecturer and Technician, both based at the College’s Newtownards Campus will be on taking part in the build to transform an entire house for a local family. 

Steven said, “It’s a great show and I have always been interested in how the projects come together.   Jobs featured on the show normally take 3 to 4 months but thorough teamwork and planning, the work is completed in 10 days.

He added, “The back story to the build is an inspiration and I am glad to be involved and to give my time to help the family.”

Mark said, “We’ve had the change to see the property already, so we know what we are in for.   It is amazing what can be achieved when everyone is coordinated, works together and turns up to do their bit.

He added, “I have been involved in community work over the years and you see people struggling so I am glad to be able to give something back.”

Steven and Mark will be donating their electrical expertise to the build and will be working 8am to 9pm for 10 days

This will be the first time the popular award-winning show has visited Bangor, home town of Build Manager ‘Bangor boy’, Mark Millar. The build is to reconfigure the entire house, to include disabled friendly bedrooms, a wet-room with direct access for carers. Widened doors throughout, with a new lift to access the first floor would allow the families wheelchairs to move freely and end the isolation of each family member in their individual bedrooms. A redesigned and wheel chair friendly kitchen is needed for all and to help Ben, who is keen to learn catering as he needs one to one supervision. Access to the garden would bring health benefits to the whole family.  

The programme will air in this autumn.