TV Presenter Jay Blades Faces Court Over Rape Charges
TV personality Jay Blades has appeared in court via video link, facing two counts of rape.
The 55-year-old, known for hosting the BBC’s The Repair Shop, confirmed his name, address, and date of birth during a brief hearing at Telford Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday. He thanked the judge at the end of the session.
Blades, wearing animal-print spectacles, a blue suit, and a dark polka-dot tie, was not required to enter a plea at this initial appearance. He was granted conditional bail and is expected to appear at Shrewsbury Crown Court on 10 September.
He first gained prominence as the host of The Repair Shop in 2017, stepping back from presenting last year. His television career also includes appearances on Celebrity MasterChef, Celebrity Bake Off, Comic Relief, and presenting the BBC series Money For Nothing until 2020.
Blades has now been charged with two counts of rape, which has attracted significant attention in the UK.
The defendant, who resides in Claverley, Shropshire, has maintained his innocence while the investigation continues.
