Joan has just emailed me to say that Richard’s Victoria Baths episode of “Restoration” came first and will receive the restoration money so that it will be saved from demolition. Richard himself wasn’t in the programme as he’s filming “Story Of An African Farm” in South Africa, but there was a lovely old lady of 80 who used to swim at the pool and she was thrilled to bits with the announcement. Richard’s episode won with 282,018 of the total votes. Charles, Prince of Wales also spoke in support of saving buildings.

Denise adds:

“Tonight was the final Restoration programme with 10 finalists, including
Victoria Baths. I confess to not tuning in for the start of programme (ironing and prefer a drama – actually watched film Kate and Leopold) however when film finished I turned over to see result.

Film updates on final buildings were being shown then return to ‘studio’ (actually an outdoors location at Tower of London complete with background noise of police sirens!). Thought I’d missed Richard as supporter and celeb were interviewed.

Finally lines were closed. Top three were Wentworth, Victoria Baths and something beginning with ‘L’. At this point supporter and celeb stepped forward and I realised Richard wasn’t present. Wentworth had third place. Winner was VICTORIA BATHS. The elderly lady supporter was gobsmacked but managed a few words of thanks to the two and a half million people who had voted and contributed to the restoration fund.”

So YAY for Richard and the Victoria Baths!