Sarah Beeny to host new BBC show

Sarah Beeny is to host Village SOS for BBC One.

Channel 4 property guru Sarah Beeny is to switch sides to host Village SOS on BBC One. The programme, produced by BBC Cymru Wales will see Sarah follow six villages around Britain as they take on ambitious schemes to start new businesses and revitalise their local communities via grants they have received via The Big Lottery Fund.

Caroline Quentin will host Restoration Home on BBC Two. The show will look at old buildings and the history that they are steeped in as they become restored for family living, what will the team find out about the old buildings?

Commissioning Editor for Factual Formats and Features has said she is thrilled to have both presenters on board. Alison Kirkham said “We’re also thrilled to have such experienced and knowledgeable talent joining the channels to add to the diverse line-up of presenters. Not only are Sarah Beeny and Caroline Quentin popular personalities but their backgrounds and personal experiences lend themselves perfectly to the themes in their respective programmes. Sarah Beeny is a shrewd business woman and entrepreneur and Caroline Quentin has a background in restoring homes – both are passionate communicators.”

The programmes will air in 2011.