REPAIR Shop star Jay Blades’ uncle was allegedly knifed to death by his neighbour in a row over an alleyway, it emerged today.
The devastated TV star, 54, revealed his beloved uncle had been “murdered” in an Instagram post yesterday.
It has now been reported Richard Brathwaite was allegedly stabbed to death by a neighbour in Wembley, North London, in March.
The 72-year-old was locked in a dispute about a shared alleyway before the horror, it is said.
The neighbour has since been charged with murder, section 18 GBH with intent, and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
He is also accused of attacking Richard’s wife – Jay’s aunt – during the tragedy.
Prosecutor Deanna Heer KC told the Old Bailey previously the alleged killing came following a “long-running neighbour dispute between the defendant and the deceased”.
The defendant will next appear in court for a plea hearing on June 11.
Jay announced the heartbreaking news yesterday in an emotional tribute to his uncle.
He said: “Hope you’re all well. This is kind of like a public service announcement.
“I’ve just been to my uncle’s funeral, he was murdered a few weeks ago. Really, super nice guy, shouldn’t have happened to him, but it really affected me.”
Jay informed his followers he was stepping back from social media to focus on his mental health.
He ended the message by saying: “Please, take care of each other, take care of yourself, and I’ll see you guys soon.”
Jay was immediately flooded with support by his TV star pals.
Julia Bradbury said: “Sorry to hear this Jay. Glad you’re taking some time out.”
While Louise Minchin wrote: “I am so sorry to hear this, sending you love xx.”
Jay has previously spoken out about his troubled childhood after growing up in poverty.
The star’s mum was abandoned by his dad when he was a youngster.
Jay ended up homeless in his 20s before being given social housing but has since gone on to carve out a successful career in TV.
The dad-of-three was awarded an MBE in 2021 and filmed a special episode of Repair Shop last year with King Charles.
