**Jay Blades Pleads Not Guilty to Rape Charges Amid Legal Proceedings**
TV presenter Jay Blades has entered a not guilty plea to two counts of rape. The 55-year-old, known for his role on the BBC’s popular furniture restoration show, The Repair Shop, appeared via videolink at Shrewsbury Crown Court on Wednesday morning, as he did not attend in person. Currently residing in Shropshire and on conditional bail, Blades has been unable to work since the allegations surfaced.
The trial is scheduled to take place in September 2027, with defense attorney Susan Meek highlighting the significant impact the allegations have had on Blades’s career. Judge Anthony Lowe acknowledged the unfortunate backlog of cases contributing to the delay, stating that he could not prioritize this case over others.
A case management hearing is set for May 15 of next year, which Blades is not required to attend. Blades gained fame as the face of The Repair Shop, which he began presenting in 2017, and has also hosted BBC’s Money For Nothing until 2020. He has participated in various celebrity cooking shows, including Celebrity MasterChef and Celebrity Bake Off.
The 14th series of The Repair Shop aired this year without a lead presenter, and the upcoming Christmas special will be hosted by Roman Kemp.
**FAQ**
*What are the charges against Jay Blades?*
Jay Blades has been charged with two counts of rape, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
