1/6. Rene Carayol updates the stories of householders from across the country who took on the challenge of paying off their mortgage in 24 months. Two years ago Dan, a self-employed blacksmith, and his partner Lucy were struggling to meet the monthly repayments on their small cottage in St Ives, Cornwall. Have they managed to clear their debts so they can indulge their real passion in life - surfing?
The Inside Story: page 94

The Inside Story
"It's really extreme trying to pay off a mortgage in two years instead of 25," says presenter Rene Carayol (right), who reports back on how well eight householders have done in Did They Pay Off Their Mortgage in Two Years? (7.30pm BBC2). "I wouldn't necessarily recommend it. For one thing, singles can't do it. You need the support of a partner. Even then, boy, is it hard work!" And the results as the deadline approaches? "I'm sure two couples will make it," says Carayol. "But my guess is that none of these people will go back to their old consumer ways."