Turner's Twickenham house faces restoration challenge

Sandycombe Lodge was the house built by the artist William Turner in Twickenham as a rural retreat almost 200 years ago.

Originally called Solus Lodge, it was built by the River Thames on a site which was then in the middle of the countryside.

The house is architecturally significant because Turner designed the house himself as an escape from the pressures of London, the Royal Academy, his clients, mistress and family.

Despite its celebrated owner, the historic property is currently on English Heritage's 'At Risk' Register' and requires £2 million for a major restoration project.

Gyles Brandreth looks at the challenges faced by conservationists and the charitable trust which runs the building.

Restoring England's Heritage is broadcast on Thursday, 5 December on BBC One London at 19:30 GMT and nationwide on the iPlayer for seven days thereafter.