Age UK Barnet's own handyperson helps out on BBC 1's DIY SOS show

Our very own handyperson Adam (pictured centre with the DIY SOS team) was part of a group of volunteer builders, electricians and joiners to help adapt the East Barnet home of PC Kris Aves, who was left wheelchair bound after last year's Westminster terror attack.

Screened on Wednesday 7 March, this episode of BBC One's DIY SOS is called ‘The Big Build – Barnet’.

'We adapted the whole house for Kris’s wheelchair, and completely refurbished and redecorated too,’ says Adam. ‘I did some painting, plastering and general labour - a bit of everything really.’

The BBC said that it was the biggest response it has ever had to a DIY SOS appeal.

Adam, who applied after picking up a flyer appealing for volunteers, said he had to go through a rigorous selection process which involved an interview. ‘A lot of people wanted to help but not everyone got through,’ he says.

The team of volunteers assembled, they worked together with the DIY SOS team and presenter Nick Knowles to make changes to Kris’s home so he could leave hospital and be reunited with his family.

‘We met Kris on the last day,’ says Adam. ‘He was very grateful and I felt privileged to play my part in helping such an honourable and decent individual.’

On the day of the Westminster terrorist attack, Kris was returning from a ceremony to honour officers who deal with public order issues. He had just received an award for his work as a police liaison officer in the Metropolitan Police.

Adam is part of Age UK Barnet’s Handyperson team, which provides practical help to older people in their homes. Telephone the Age UK Barnet Handyperson Service on 020 8150 0963.