The Repair Shop viewers left stunned as key star makes their on-screen debut despite working on the show for seven years

THE Repair Shop viewers were gobsmacked as a pivotal team member made their on-camera debut.

Having launched in 2017, the factual programme has grown into a BBC hit.

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Fans are used to seeing the show's craftspeople work their magic to restore sentimental items.

However, they were stunned as the voice behind the show's iconic narration finally appeared on camera.

Scottish actor Bill Paterson has appeared in the likes of Fleabag and Law and Order UK.

He wore a blue shirt and navy jacket, while wearing dark round-framed glasses.

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The 79-year-old first lent his voice to The Repair Shop in series one.

He left thereafter, with fellow actor Robert Pugh stepping in for the next three editions.

Bill returned in series five and remained part of the team ever since.

Taking to social media, fans shared their reactions to the star's on-camera appearance.

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One wrote on X: "Seeing Bill on screen was a surprise."

Another added: "Bill Paterson such a reassuring voice, if it gets broke there is always the Repair Shop."

A third penned: "Love him on The Repair Shop - also love another connection between that show and Outlander - the narrator :) who if I'm not mistaken is the always lovely Ned Gowan (Bill Paterson)."

While a fourth penned: "Wow, that's REALLY strange seeing the voice of #therepairshop on screen."

Other viewers recognised Bill for his role in 1990 film The Witches.

Directed by Nicolas Roeg, the dark fantasy film was based upon Roald Dahl's book of the same name.

The Repair Shop experts

The Repair Shop premiered in 2017 and sees family heirlooms restored for their owners by numerous experts with a broad range of specialisms. Jay Blades acts as the foreman, with a talented team at work in the restoration process. Let's take a look at some of them.

• Jay Blades: Foreman of The Repair Shop and Furniture Restorer
• Will Kirk: Carpenter, Cabinet Maker and Wood Painter
• Steve Fletcher: Clock Restorer
• Suzie Fletcher: Saddle Maker and Leather Worker
• Dominic Chinea: Metal Worker and Signs Restorer
• Sonnaz Nooranvary: Upholstery Restorer
• Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell: Soft-toy Restorers
• Kirsten Ramsay: Ceramics Conservator
• Lucia Scalisi: Painting Conservator
• Brenton West: Antique Photography Specialist and Silversmith

Bill portrayed "Mr Jenkins", the late father of lead character Luke (Jasen Fisher).

Future Vera star - and Golden Globe winner - Brenda Blethyn appeared as Luke's mother.

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His extensive career also includes parts in Doctor Who, Good Omens, Brassic and House of the Dragon.

The Repair Shop airs on BBC One and is available on iPlayer.

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