By DESIGN

PATRICK GRANT on how the semi-final of his hit sewing contest celebrates iconic couturiers

- REBECCA FLETCHER

THE GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE

WEDNESDAY, 9PM, BBC1 ENTERTAINMENT

Patrick Grant looks slightly bemused when TV Times asks if this year’s semi-finalists in The Great British Sewing Bee are starting to get competitive.

Until now, the merry group of contestants on the popular BBC1 stitching show have steadfastly refused to display any rivalry or ruthless behaviour, preferring instead to help each other whenever sartorial difficulties loom.

But after eight weeks of playing nice, surely the four remaining contenders must have their elbows out at the machines, ready to do battle to secure a place in next week’s final?

‘Er, no!’ laughs Patrick, 52, who co-judges the competition alongside designer Esme Young. ‘They help each other out as much in the semi-final as they did in the first week! The thing is, no one wants to win by someone else having a disaster – you want to win because your ideas and creativity have risen to the top.

‘And besides, they can’t help themselves from helping each other as they’ve become good friends. Of course, no one wants to fall at the almost-final hurdle – they’d all like to get to the final – but competitive? Maybe there’s a bit of added tension in the Sewing Room, but certainly no reduction in their willingness to help out!’

Fans wouldn’t want it any other way! Here, Patrick tells us how the semi-final will celebrate fashion icons…

Are you enjoying the 10th season of The Great British Sewing Bee, Patrick?

Time flies – I can’t believe it’s semi-final week. We’re having an amazing series with such good contestants. They’re creative and fun, and there’s a great energy in the Sewing Room. I don’t want to send anyone home!

How are you going to follow the fabulous diva-themed quarterfinal episode?