The stars of “The Repair Shop” announce “exciting” career change away from the show

“Repair Shop” stars Julie Tatchell and Amanda Middleditch are taking an “exciting” career step.

The couple, who restore teddy bears and toys in the barn, have announced that they have written a children’s book together – Bartie Bristle will be published on 6 June and can be pre-ordered now.

“Here’s our exciting news. We’re delighted to introduce you to Bartie Bristle. Our first children’s book. Published by Walker Books. Beautifully illustrated by @theremaybecats,” they wrote on their shared Instagram account alongside a snapshot of the book’s cover.

Related: Jay Blades of The Repair Shop discovers he has 27 siblings

The duo, known as “the Teddy Bear Ladies,” continued: “Set in a village in the heart of the Old Woods, the magical world of the Teddy Bear Shop and the heartwarming stories of Bartie and his teddy bear friends will captivate children and parents alike.”

Describing the inspiration behind the story, the post continues: “Julie and Amanda began writing short stories about Bartie Bristle and the other children’s favorite toys that came into their store. In the process, Julie was reinvented as Mrs. T and Amanda as Rose.”

Fans were quick to share their excitement in the comments section. “Congratulations! I wish you much success with your book! Can’t wait to get a copy,” one person wrote.

Related topics: The Repair Shop’s Jay Blades becomes new TV project manager

“Congratulations! I’m going to buy two copies, one for each of my great nieces. Thank you for writing this and for all you do. Your tenderness is beautiful,” added another.

A third said: “Oh wow!!! How exciting!! I can’t wait to meet Bartie and all his friends. I must get a copy for my little grandchildren.”

Tatchell and Middleditch aren’t the only Repair Shop experts to have written a book. The show’s frontman and furniture restorer Jay Blades recently published a book that’s part memoir and part self-help book called Life Lessons: Wisdom and Wit from Life’s Ups and Downs.

“The Repair Shop” airs on BBC One.

You might also like