0:00:05 > 0:00:08Welcome to the Walker Art Gallery.
0:00:08 > 0:00:12It's one of several museums looked after by National Museums Liverpool.
0:00:12 > 0:00:15And today, I've got special permission to go behind the scenes
0:00:15 > 0:00:17to see how they care for their millions
0:00:17 > 0:00:21of often priceless objects that are sometimes in danger
0:00:21 > 0:00:24of deterioration or, even worse, falling apart.
0:00:24 > 0:00:25All that's to come, but right now,
0:00:25 > 0:00:28I've got to get to the other side of the Mersey for our valuations.
0:00:28 > 0:00:31Welcome to "Flog It!".
0:00:55 > 0:00:57Yes, today's show covers both sides of the river,
0:00:57 > 0:01:00an area known as Merseyside.
0:01:00 > 0:01:04We're kicking off on the west bank, on the Wirral Peninsula,
0:01:04 > 0:01:07whose history has always been shaped by the Mersey,
0:01:07 > 0:01:09ever since the 14th century,
0:01:09 > 0:01:11when the monks at Birkenhead Priory
0:01:11 > 0:01:13started a cross-river ferry service.
0:01:17 > 0:01:19The 19th century saw the birth of the area's renowned
0:01:19 > 0:01:21shipbuilding tradition,
0:01:21 > 0:01:23when John Laird opened his shipyard.
0:01:26 > 0:01:28Fast-forward to 1962
0:01:28 > 0:01:32and the world's first commercial hovercraft service began.
0:01:32 > 0:01:34Yes, on the Wirral Peninsula!
0:01:35 > 0:01:39And overlooking all that history is our valuation day venue -
0:01:39 > 0:01:40Wallasey Town Hall.
0:01:43 > 0:01:45Today, the good folk of Merseyside
0:01:45 > 0:01:48have come from both sides of the river to the town hall
0:01:48 > 0:01:50on the Wirral Peninsula for our valuation day.
0:01:50 > 0:01:52And judging by the size of this crowd,
0:01:52 > 0:01:54I think we're going to be in for a cracking show.
0:01:54 > 0:01:57They're here to have their antiques and collectables valued.
0:01:57 > 0:02:00And if they're happy with that valuation, what are you going to do?
0:02:00 > 0:02:02ALL: Flog it!
0:02:03 > 0:02:06And already looking for potential items in the queue
0:02:06 > 0:02:08is Nick Davies,
0:02:08 > 0:02:10a man in need of some sunglasses.
0:02:10 > 0:02:12LAUGHTER
0:02:12 > 0:02:14That'll affect the shipping, that will, it's so bright!
0:02:14 > 0:02:17- HORN BLARES - Oops, sorry!
0:02:17 > 0:02:19However, antiques are like homing beacons
0:02:19 > 0:02:22for our other expert, Philip Serrell.
0:02:22 > 0:02:25You know, I'm really looking forward to seeing John Lennon's glasses.
0:02:25 > 0:02:27I know somebody's got these... There they are!
0:02:27 > 0:02:29It's him! He's got 'em.
0:02:29 > 0:02:30- Fantastic.- He's got 'em.
0:02:30 > 0:02:32I'm going off to find Ringo.
0:02:33 > 0:02:35Well, I don't know about A HARD DAY'S NIGHT,
0:02:35 > 0:02:38but we've certainly got a good day's work in front of us.
0:02:38 > 0:02:39So, let's get everybody inside.
0:02:42 > 0:02:45Oh, it's a good job we British know how to queue.
0:02:45 > 0:02:48No overtaking or queue-jumping here, I tell you.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51But whilst everybody finds their fair place,
0:02:51 > 0:02:53I'm going to cheat and jump ahead
0:02:53 > 0:02:54and give you a sneak preview
0:02:54 > 0:02:56of what's coming up on today's show.
0:03:01 > 0:03:05Nick finds an intriguing inscription a little bit maddening.
0:03:05 > 0:03:07What happened that night?
0:03:07 > 0:03:08We'll never know.
0:03:08 > 0:03:10We will never, ever know.
0:03:10 > 0:03:12How frustrating!
0:03:12 > 0:03:15And Philip has some fun with his valuations.
0:03:15 > 0:03:17Have you got a figure in mind for this?
0:03:17 > 0:03:20- Well, I have.- Oh...
0:03:21 > 0:03:2325 online, 30 bid...
0:03:23 > 0:03:26But who will have the last laugh in the saleroom
0:03:26 > 0:03:28when more than one of our items
0:03:28 > 0:03:31goes on to make several hundred pounds?
0:03:31 > 0:03:32Ooh!
0:03:32 > 0:03:34No, that's good.
0:03:34 > 0:03:35Oh, my goodness.
0:03:36 > 0:03:38So, with the hall filling up
0:03:38 > 0:03:41and a lovely buzz of anticipation bouncing off the walls,
0:03:41 > 0:03:44let's get straight into our first valuation
0:03:44 > 0:03:46with Nick, up in the gods.
0:03:47 > 0:03:48Well, hello, Phil.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50Here we are in Wallasey Town Hall,
0:03:50 > 0:03:52a gem of a building.
0:03:52 > 0:03:55And you've brought a nice little gem for us as well, here.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57Can you tell me a little bit about the bangle?
0:03:57 > 0:04:00- You shouldn't use the word "junk", but I...- Right.
0:04:00 > 0:04:04It was in a box of various pieces of jewellery,
0:04:04 > 0:04:05which I inherited,
0:04:05 > 0:04:08and I've always taken a fancy to it.
0:04:08 > 0:04:12- But I didn't know any history about it...- Right.
0:04:12 > 0:04:14..but I thought it was very pretty.
0:04:14 > 0:04:17- But I don't wear blue very much... - Right.
0:04:17 > 0:04:20- No, you're all in purple regalia there.- I'm in purple.
0:04:20 > 0:04:23Well, I can tell you it's come from where I've come from,
0:04:23 > 0:04:25actually, it's come from Birmingham.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28- It was made in the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter.- Fantastic.
0:04:28 > 0:04:32And it's hallmarked around the edge, so we can date it exactly to 1904.
0:04:32 > 0:04:34So, Birmingham Jewellery Quarter was turning out
0:04:34 > 0:04:36about a million items a week at this period.
0:04:36 > 0:04:39They were, as a manufacturing hub, really prevalent.
0:04:39 > 0:04:41Sapphire and sea pearls,
0:04:41 > 0:04:43or river pearls, as some people like to call them,
0:04:43 > 0:04:45nice graduated colour.
0:04:45 > 0:04:47One little problem with it, I think.
0:04:47 > 0:04:49I think the centre stone, right in the middle,
0:04:49 > 0:04:51has been replaced with a paste stone.
0:04:51 > 0:04:54- Yes, it's a different colour altogether.- It's slightly different.
0:04:54 > 0:04:57It's a little bit more vibrant, if the truth be told.
0:04:57 > 0:04:58Why do you want to sell it?
0:04:59 > 0:05:00It means nothing to me.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02I just think it's a very pretty thing.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05- So you never wanted to wear it yourself?- No, no.
0:05:05 > 0:05:06- No?- Not at all.
0:05:06 > 0:05:08So, from a valuation point of view,
0:05:08 > 0:05:12- I'd probably put around about 100 to 150 on it.- Wow!
0:05:12 > 0:05:14So it's not really junk?
0:05:14 > 0:05:15No, definitely not junk.
0:05:15 > 0:05:19We can use the bottom estimate as a reserve, I think that's fair.
0:05:19 > 0:05:22It may go on and do a little bit more. It's a pretty thing.
0:05:22 > 0:05:25- As I said, the trouble with it is the replaced stone.- Yes.
0:05:25 > 0:05:28And to get that put back right will cost, either a jeweller or someone,
0:05:28 > 0:05:30you know, a fair bit of money, to be fair.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33But it's a really pretty thing, it should do well.
0:05:33 > 0:05:35It'll look after itself on the day. Are you happy with that?
0:05:35 > 0:05:38I'd be thrilled, because, obviously, the junk isn't junk.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41And that's the beauty of "Flog It!",
0:05:41 > 0:05:43you don't know what you could have stashed away
0:05:43 > 0:05:46until you bring it along to one of our valuation days.
0:05:48 > 0:05:51- Mary, how are you? - All right, fine, Philip.
0:05:51 > 0:05:53- This is a bit topical around here, isn't it?- I know, isn't it?
0:05:53 > 0:05:56- Where's it come from? - It was an old aunt's.
0:05:56 > 0:05:57You've got a great accent, you know.
0:05:57 > 0:06:00- So you're a Liverpudlian? - No, I come from Birkenhead,
0:06:00 > 0:06:02Prenton, on the Wirral.
0:06:02 > 0:06:05- And where has this come from, Mary? - It's came out the loft.
0:06:05 > 0:06:07- Out the loft?- Yeah. We're just getting the loft all done
0:06:07 > 0:06:11and we come across some pictures belonging to an old aunt,
0:06:11 > 0:06:14and, erm, I just thought, "I'd love to go on 'Flog It!' ", so here I am.
0:06:14 > 0:06:15Brilliant, here you are.
0:06:15 > 0:06:17- That's lovely. - I watch it all the time.
0:06:17 > 0:06:19- This is not worth millions, OK?- No.
0:06:19 > 0:06:22But I just quite like it. I mean, it's just lovely.
0:06:22 > 0:06:24And what I like about this is that
0:06:24 > 0:06:26there's a sort of little story going on here,
0:06:26 > 0:06:31because this was painted in 1903 by Owens -
0:06:31 > 0:06:34- whoever Owens is - certainly not a recorded artist.- No.
0:06:34 > 0:06:38But this ship, if you look at it very closely,
0:06:38 > 0:06:40can you see there, it says "Panama"?
0:06:40 > 0:06:42- Oh, yeah. Yeah.- Right.
0:06:42 > 0:06:46The Panama was commissioned in 1902, right?
0:06:46 > 0:06:48And this was painted in 1903.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52And in 1920, the Panama,
0:06:52 > 0:06:54it was taken in as a hospital ship.
0:06:54 > 0:06:55So this ship,
0:06:55 > 0:06:58which was about for 40 years,
0:06:58 > 0:07:00became a hospital ship.
0:07:00 > 0:07:03- Oh.- And I just think it's really, really interesting.- Yeah.
0:07:03 > 0:07:05- And it's quite primitive.- Yeah.
0:07:05 > 0:07:07But the fact that it's round here,
0:07:07 > 0:07:09I just think it's got a lovely story to tell.
0:07:09 > 0:07:12- So you can't shed any light on this at all?- None whatsoever.
0:07:12 > 0:07:14Erm, just handed down.
0:07:14 > 0:07:17Just found it in the loft with two other prints
0:07:17 > 0:07:20that are not really worth looking at, but I thought this one might be,
0:07:20 > 0:07:23- so that's why I'm here today.- What were you hoping it might be worth?
0:07:23 > 0:07:26- A meal out or something, really. - What sort of meal do you have?
0:07:26 > 0:07:29- About a ton, a couple of bevvies and that, you know?- A couple of bevvies?
0:07:29 > 0:07:31Yeah.
0:07:31 > 0:07:33- Right, a couple of bevvies and a what?- A meal.- And a meal.
0:07:33 > 0:07:36- How much is that?- Or am I just going to go to the chippy?
0:07:36 > 0:07:39We might just be going and getting some sandwiches actually.
0:07:39 > 0:07:43- It's going to make, my love, somewhere between £30 and £50.- Yeah.
0:07:43 > 0:07:44This artist isn't recorded.
0:07:44 > 0:07:48- And you need to put a reserve on it of, sort of, £25 firm.- Yeah.
0:07:48 > 0:07:50And that protects you, then.
0:07:50 > 0:07:52But I just think it's quite a sweet little thing.
0:07:52 > 0:07:54- Brilliant. - Not much of a meal really.
0:07:54 > 0:07:57No, it'll just get me over to Liverpool to the showroom, won't it?
0:07:57 > 0:07:59- Will you just do one more thing for me?- What, love?
0:07:59 > 0:08:00- Say "Mersey" again.- Mersey.
0:08:00 > 0:08:02I just love that! It's brilliant, isn't it?
0:08:02 > 0:08:04And speaking of that great river,
0:08:04 > 0:08:07how about we pop outside for a moment
0:08:07 > 0:08:09to take in the spectacular scenery?
0:08:11 > 0:08:14This has to be one of the most famous rivers in the world
0:08:14 > 0:08:17and, historically, that's due of course to Liverpool's Mersey Docks,
0:08:17 > 0:08:19Britain's biggest port.
0:08:19 > 0:08:20From the 18th century onwards,
0:08:20 > 0:08:23it led the way in the transportation of Lancashire coal,
0:08:23 > 0:08:26Staffordshire pottery and Welsh sheep, to name but a few.
0:08:26 > 0:08:30Nowadays, of course, it's famous for the 1960s music scene,
0:08:30 > 0:08:32the Mersey Beat, which gave us
0:08:32 > 0:08:34Ferry Across The Mersey.
0:08:34 > 0:08:37But it gives us a great excuse to play
0:08:37 > 0:08:40that fabulous Mersey Beat music.
0:08:40 > 0:08:43# People
0:08:43 > 0:08:46# They rush everywhere... #
0:08:48 > 0:08:52- How are you?- I'm very well indeed. - It's a busy old day, isn't it?
0:08:52 > 0:08:54Not when you've stood outside for an hour waiting to get in.
0:08:54 > 0:08:56It's really cold out there.
0:08:56 > 0:08:59It's true, there's thousands of folk here. It's really lovely.
0:08:59 > 0:09:03And for us it's lovely when you get that volume of people through.
0:09:03 > 0:09:06- And I love things like this. - Gorgeous, isn't it?
0:09:06 > 0:09:09We've got a steam engine, we've got a tender,
0:09:09 > 0:09:12three carriages and a level crossing,
0:09:12 > 0:09:16although I'm not quite sure that's got the gate in the right order.
0:09:16 > 0:09:19We've got our buffers over there and a track, and we've got some more in
0:09:19 > 0:09:22a box down here, so, for me, you know...
0:09:22 > 0:09:25Bit of a start for a collection for someone, isn't it?
0:09:25 > 0:09:27So, were these yours?
0:09:27 > 0:09:32No, they weren't. I work for a local charity and this came
0:09:32 > 0:09:34into one of our charity shops.
0:09:34 > 0:09:36So this has come in for you to raise money...
0:09:36 > 0:09:38It's a little bit of serendipity, yes.
0:09:38 > 0:09:41Well, you can see this is Hornby, and the Hornby factory
0:09:41 > 0:09:45was set up by Frank Hornby in 1901.
0:09:45 > 0:09:49Their first clockwork train came about in about 1920.
0:09:49 > 0:09:53But I would guess...this is around 1930, something like that.
0:09:53 > 0:09:55That sounds about right.
0:09:55 > 0:09:58Hornby's still going today, branded by Meccano.
0:09:59 > 0:10:00I think it's interesting.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03Condition is everything with these things and this,
0:10:03 > 0:10:07- like all toys should be, has been well played with.- Yes.
0:10:07 > 0:10:10I think we've had the odd derailment here and there...
0:10:10 > 0:10:14- I think loved is the word that's best used.- Absolutely.
0:10:14 > 0:10:17In good order, these things could make a couple of hundred pounds,
0:10:17 > 0:10:21but in a way...you've got to sell them, haven't you?
0:10:21 > 0:10:23We have indeed, and we need the money
0:10:23 > 0:10:24so we can keep our charity going, yes.
0:10:24 > 0:10:29Well, what I think we should do is put an estimate of £30 to £50.
0:10:29 > 0:10:30That sounds fine to me.
0:10:30 > 0:10:32That would be fantastic, wouldn't it?
0:10:32 > 0:10:35- Absolutely fantastic, yes. - That would be fantastic.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38I just love these. I love them.
0:10:38 > 0:10:40# Pardon me, boy
0:10:40 > 0:10:43- # Is that the Chattanooga Choo Choo? - Yes, yes... #
0:10:43 > 0:10:47These collectables make you feel really nostalgic for times gone by.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49But we've no time to linger -
0:10:49 > 0:10:53let's catch up with expert Nick Davies.
0:10:53 > 0:10:55Can you tell me a little bit about the medals,
0:10:55 > 0:10:56how you've come about them?
0:10:56 > 0:10:58Well, they don't belong to me.
0:10:58 > 0:11:01But I acquired them from my mother,
0:11:01 > 0:11:03who's been dead now 15 years,
0:11:03 > 0:11:06and she had them from her friend before that.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08Just been in the loft, my loft.
0:11:08 > 0:11:11- They've been stuffed in the loft and forgotten about...- They have.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14- ..for all these years. It's a bit of a sad tale, really.- Yes.
0:11:14 > 0:11:17But one that we should all be very grateful for, as well.
0:11:17 > 0:11:18They were awarded to this gentleman.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21He was Albert Edward Aston -
0:11:21 > 0:11:24lost in action in November 1917
0:11:24 > 0:11:27in the First World War, over in France.
0:11:27 > 0:11:30It was a battle in northern France which was the first major
0:11:30 > 0:11:31tank battle by the Allies,
0:11:31 > 0:11:34so it was an important moment in the war.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37It was one of the pivotal battles that shifted strength
0:11:37 > 0:11:38from one side to the other.
0:11:38 > 0:11:41And he was part of the Machine Gun Corps,
0:11:41 > 0:11:42which was...
0:11:42 > 0:11:45Must have been pretty gruesome, in those days...
0:11:45 > 0:11:46and hard work.
0:11:46 > 0:11:49So, we've got a First World War medal pair here.
0:11:49 > 0:11:52A typical medal pair. We've got the British War Medal
0:11:52 > 0:11:55and the Victory, or Civilisation Medal nearer to me.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57The nice thing about it, not only have we got the medals,
0:11:57 > 0:11:59but we've got really interesting paperwork,
0:11:59 > 0:12:02and this social history really puts flesh on the bones for the medals.
0:12:02 > 0:12:04It says here,
0:12:04 > 0:12:06"It is my painful duty to inform you
0:12:06 > 0:12:09"that having no further news been received..." -
0:12:09 > 0:12:11relative to his rank and name -
0:12:11 > 0:12:16"..he has been missing since the 30th November 1917."
0:12:16 > 0:12:20And they regretfully conclude that he is dead.
0:12:20 > 0:12:22- It's a poignant thing, really.- Yes.
0:12:22 > 0:12:25And not only that, with his dog tag as well.
0:12:25 > 0:12:27The great thing about First World War medals
0:12:27 > 0:12:28is the research you can do on them.
0:12:28 > 0:12:31And you can really get under the skin of the conflicts.
0:12:31 > 0:12:34It's something that you can't do with the Second World War medals
0:12:34 > 0:12:36because they weren't named around the rim.
0:12:36 > 0:12:40So you have that real tie to the history of the moment,
0:12:40 > 0:12:41which I think's really important.
0:12:41 > 0:12:43From a valuation point of view,
0:12:43 > 0:12:47I'd probably put them in around about £80 to £120,
0:12:47 > 0:12:50and they're just a really good, clean set of medals.
0:12:50 > 0:12:52- Yes.- But they're great history.
0:12:52 > 0:12:55I presume, if they've been stuffed in the loft for some time,
0:12:55 > 0:12:58that'll be better than leaving them back in the loft, I presume?
0:12:58 > 0:12:59- Well, it would, yes. - Good. Excellent.
0:12:59 > 0:13:03It is a sad story, but a story that must be told,
0:13:03 > 0:13:06and this is a great way of connecting to the past.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08So thank you very much for bringing them in
0:13:08 > 0:13:11and I'm sure they'll do really well at the sale for you.
0:13:16 > 0:13:19'And now for a piece of local interest.
0:13:19 > 0:13:22'I daresay that a lot of people walking past
0:13:22 > 0:13:25'this old Midland Railway Building in the heart of Liverpool
0:13:25 > 0:13:28'don't know to what use it's put to today.'
0:13:28 > 0:13:31I think they might be quite surprised to find out
0:13:31 > 0:13:34that this rather unprepossessing side street
0:13:34 > 0:13:36leads to a team of specialists
0:13:36 > 0:13:38working in state-of-the-art facilities,
0:13:38 > 0:13:42looking after countless objects of national significance -
0:13:42 > 0:13:45otherwise known as the Conservation Studios.
0:13:47 > 0:13:50'The inside of this building doesn't give much away either.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54'It's only the signage and the lettering outside each department
0:13:54 > 0:13:58'that really gives us a clue as to what goes on here.'
0:13:59 > 0:14:02'So, how about we start with the Organics Department?'
0:14:04 > 0:14:08- Hi, Tracey, it's Paul. Pleased to meet you.- Nice to meet you.
0:14:08 > 0:14:10So, this is Organics.
0:14:10 > 0:14:12What do you do here?
0:14:12 > 0:14:14I look after all of the organic materials
0:14:14 > 0:14:16that belong to National Museums Liverpool.
0:14:16 > 0:14:20It can include material from ancient history, or from the present time.
0:14:20 > 0:14:23It includes things like wood, basketry, fur, feathers, hair.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25- It's varied. - It's massively varied, yes.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28- So, every day is quite exciting. - Yes, every day is really different.
0:14:28 > 0:14:32Well, talking about organics, I know what this is, it's a life belt.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34This is from a ship called the RMS Lusitania
0:14:34 > 0:14:36and we know that from...
0:14:36 > 0:14:39It's actually got the name printed on one side.
0:14:39 > 0:14:41She was torpedoed in 1915,
0:14:41 > 0:14:43sunk by a German U-boat,
0:14:43 > 0:14:46with the loss of about 1,200 men, women and children.
0:14:46 > 0:14:50We think this is the only existing example of the life jacket
0:14:50 > 0:14:51from the Lusitania.
0:14:51 > 0:14:53So, what are you going to do to this?
0:14:53 > 0:14:54Well, it needs cleaning,
0:14:54 > 0:14:57but there's a limit to how much cleaning I can do...
0:14:57 > 0:15:00Without stripping it all of its social history and what it means?
0:15:00 > 0:15:02Yeah, and also without causing more damage,
0:15:02 > 0:15:05because if this was immersed in water, it would probably
0:15:05 > 0:15:08- get more stained from the cork blocks that are inside it.- Yeah.
0:15:08 > 0:15:10So, I can only really do a surface dry clean.
0:15:10 > 0:15:11So, while you're working on this,
0:15:11 > 0:15:13obviously you're working on other things?
0:15:13 > 0:15:15Yeah, there's usually a lot going on, yeah. In fact,
0:15:15 > 0:15:18we've got an object next door that you might be interested to see.
0:15:18 > 0:15:21- OK, surprise me.- If you'd like to come through?- Come on, then.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Oh, man, it's a mummy! How fascinating!
0:15:23 > 0:15:26- Can I have a look in there? - This is one of the earliest objects
0:15:26 > 0:15:29that came into World Museum's collection.
0:15:29 > 0:15:31It's about 3,000 to 3,500 years old.
0:15:31 > 0:15:33So, what will you exactly do today?
0:15:33 > 0:15:36Well, today I'm continuing with the cleaning using this sponge,
0:15:36 > 0:15:38which is quite a gentle way of getting
0:15:38 > 0:15:40a little bit more dirt off the surface.
0:15:40 > 0:15:44And you might be able to tell that I've cleaned this part of the face.
0:15:44 > 0:15:46- It's a little bit cleaner than the other half.- Yes, I can see that.
0:15:46 > 0:15:48The gilding is coming through.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51Yes, and this decoration is a bit more visible here.
0:15:51 > 0:15:53What will you do about the face?
0:15:53 > 0:15:58Well, if I can find any loose fragments inside, I'll fix them
0:15:58 > 0:15:59back in position.
0:15:59 > 0:16:01And to do that, I'll use some tissue,
0:16:01 > 0:16:04which I'll fix to the underside of the face, to make a little support.
0:16:04 > 0:16:06- Make a little bridge?- Yeah, exactly.
0:16:06 > 0:16:08And it's interesting that you can actually see the mummy
0:16:08 > 0:16:11- through that gap.- I think so. I think that's quite nice.
0:16:11 > 0:16:14It's a shame that it's damaged, but it does give us a bit more information.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17- There's a fragment down there but it looks like...- There is!
0:16:17 > 0:16:19Yeah, shall we try and get it out, do you think?
0:16:19 > 0:16:23- Will you help me? - Well, I'll hold the light, shall I? I'm quite clumsy...
0:16:23 > 0:16:24Yeah, if you position that light...
0:16:30 > 0:16:32I think I've got that piece...
0:16:32 > 0:16:35- Yeah, very good. OK? Got it. - You've got it?
0:16:35 > 0:16:37- Coming to you...- Got it.
0:16:37 > 0:16:39- Have you got it?- Yeah.
0:16:39 > 0:16:42- I hope I'm not going to be cursed! - There we go, we've got it!
0:16:42 > 0:16:43PAUL GASPS
0:16:45 > 0:16:50So, I think this has come from the inside of the face somewhere.
0:16:50 > 0:16:52Wow, it's quite amazing.
0:16:52 > 0:16:54In fact, it's overwhelming to think, you know,
0:16:54 > 0:16:57it's 3,000 years old. And it's all in a day's work.
0:16:57 > 0:17:00- All in a day's work!- Tracey, thanks so much for showing me around.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03- It's a pleasure.- I feel very privileged to be part of this.
0:17:03 > 0:17:08'Yes, it's all happening here. And next door, in Paper Conservation, they're responsible
0:17:08 > 0:17:12'for anything from 16th-century books to photographs and watercolours.'
0:17:14 > 0:17:18'Today, they're washing an 18th-century print
0:17:18 > 0:17:20'in de-ionised water, to remove acidity
0:17:20 > 0:17:24'in the paper and discolouration, so that they can put it on display.'
0:17:25 > 0:17:29'Downstairs, there's another department I'd like to show you,
0:17:29 > 0:17:33'which deals in some really heavyweight antiquities.'
0:17:37 > 0:17:38- Hi, Lottie.- Hi, Paul.
0:17:38 > 0:17:40- Great to meet you.- And you.
0:17:40 > 0:17:42You've got the right lifting gear.
0:17:42 > 0:17:44Yes, it's really handy in this kind of work.
0:17:44 > 0:17:48- I see you're working on a bust, which is in several parts.- Yes.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50It has really been in the wars, this one, unfortunately.
0:17:50 > 0:17:53- It's like putting a jigsaw puzzle back together again.- Absolutely.
0:17:53 > 0:17:56- But I bet there's some missing pieces.- There are, and we've got
0:17:56 > 0:17:58bags and bags of where the marble has just crumbled
0:17:58 > 0:18:02away to nothing and there is really very little we can do with that.
0:18:02 > 0:18:05Erm, when it became fashionable in the late 18th and 19th century
0:18:05 > 0:18:07to collect these Roman and Greek pieces,
0:18:07 > 0:18:12they were often already in bits and restorers were using iron pins and
0:18:12 > 0:18:16ancient resins to stick them back together and make whole sculptures.
0:18:16 > 0:18:19I'm using this as an advantage to take these out,
0:18:19 > 0:18:23so that they can be replaced with stainless steel or Perspex pins,
0:18:23 > 0:18:25which won't corrode and cause any damage.
0:18:25 > 0:18:27And that's what's happened there. They've rusted now.
0:18:27 > 0:18:30- Yes, you can see how deformed and rusted they can become.- Mm!
0:18:30 > 0:18:31There is a lot going on in here.
0:18:31 > 0:18:34Missing heads, missing limbs, it's proper surgery!
0:18:34 > 0:18:37You're halfway through cleaning something, aren't you?
0:18:37 > 0:18:41- I noticed that.- Yes. This is another piece from the Ince Blundell collection, and here,
0:18:41 > 0:18:43I'm using steam to clean it.
0:18:43 > 0:18:46And you can see that this side has been cleaned
0:18:46 > 0:18:48and this side is still filthy.
0:18:49 > 0:18:52STEAM CLEANER HISSES
0:18:53 > 0:18:57- It's pretty quick!- Yes.- It's very quick. Well, I envy you lot here.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- It's a great studio, so I'll leave you to get on with that.- OK.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03- Thank you very much.- Nice to meet you.- Good luck with it!- Thank you.
0:19:03 > 0:19:08'The range of specialist skills and knowledge of materials put to use here really is amazing.'
0:19:09 > 0:19:12'In the Ceramics Department, Janet is using her chemistry training
0:19:12 > 0:19:16'to repair an 18th-century Wedgewood bowl.'
0:19:18 > 0:19:21'Whereas, in the Ship And Historic Models Department, Chris is
0:19:21 > 0:19:24'working on a model of a Liverpool liner, the Letitia.
0:19:24 > 0:19:28'This has been in storage since the Second World War
0:19:28 > 0:19:31'but now it's destined for display at the Maritime Museum.'
0:19:33 > 0:19:36'But for me, there's just time to visit one last department
0:19:36 > 0:19:39'and it's one I'm particularly keen to look at.'
0:19:41 > 0:19:45- Dave, hi.- Hello.- It's Paul. I recognise that as a Constable.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48- This is indeed.- I can see you've taken an X-ray of it.
0:19:48 > 0:19:51- What are you doing to this anyway? - Well, this is Constable's cottage
0:19:51 > 0:19:55at East Bergholt from the Lady Lever Art Gallery collections.
0:19:55 > 0:19:57We think Constable made additions to the canvas.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00We spend a lot of our time looking at the paintings in great detail,
0:20:00 > 0:20:05by X-ray, microscope examination, so that we can find out as much as
0:20:05 > 0:20:08we possibly can technically about the paintings, to see how they were made.
0:20:08 > 0:20:11I've got the prints of the X-ray here.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14We can see that there is, erm, a female figure here.
0:20:14 > 0:20:18There's drapery and lines of flowing material here, and another figure,
0:20:18 > 0:20:22carrying what looks like a water jar, which is highly interesting
0:20:22 > 0:20:25because it's nothing to do with the current composition.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28- No, it's not, is it? - And it may not be anything to do with Constable either.
0:20:28 > 0:20:31We're not quite sure whether he has reused this existing canvas...
0:20:31 > 0:20:34- And old canvas that he's stumbled across?- Yes. Indeed.
0:20:34 > 0:20:35Erm, so, that's fascinating.
0:20:38 > 0:20:39Tell me about this piece.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42I can see it's yellowing up through varnish, look.
0:20:42 > 0:20:44Well, this is my current cleaning project.
0:20:44 > 0:20:46This is by the Master Of Frankfurt,
0:20:46 > 0:20:48Holy Family With Music-Making Angels.
0:20:48 > 0:20:51At the moment, the priority is to remove discoloured varnish
0:20:51 > 0:20:54and over-paint and address some problems with flaking paint
0:20:54 > 0:20:57- underneath the varnish.- Sure. - It's a beautiful picture.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00- It's got some fantastic fine detail in it.- (Oh, it's incredible!)
0:21:00 > 0:21:03So, I'll be revealing that, hopefully, when I remove all
0:21:03 > 0:21:06the discoloured varnish and some of the over-paint from it.
0:21:06 > 0:21:09Well, shall I show you how I do this?
0:21:09 > 0:21:12This is, we're just using a combination of organic solvent.
0:21:12 > 0:21:15I will just work on this area, gently rolling this cotton wool swab.
0:21:15 > 0:21:19- Mm-hm.- And the solvent will gradually dissolve the varnish.
0:21:19 > 0:21:22And you're revealing the colour of the blue underneath.
0:21:22 > 0:21:24Clearly, it's making such a huge difference...
0:21:24 > 0:21:28- And you keep looking at that cotton wool, making sure nothing else is coming off.- Yes, absolutely.
0:21:28 > 0:21:31We treat this layer by layer, stage by stage.
0:21:31 > 0:21:33So, we're working very carefully
0:21:33 > 0:21:37and also going back to things like X-rays, which I have of this picture.
0:21:37 > 0:21:39It's quite rewarding to know that you're all
0:21:39 > 0:21:42so passionate about your work and that our fine art
0:21:42 > 0:21:46and antiques are in safe hands for many more generations to come.
0:21:46 > 0:21:47So, look, good luck with that.
0:21:47 > 0:21:50Thank you. Well, that's what we do. That's what we're here for.
0:21:58 > 0:22:01Well, I've got my favourite and you've probably got yours.
0:22:01 > 0:22:04So, let's put those valuations to the test, shall we?
0:22:04 > 0:22:07Let's head over to the auction room for the very first time today.
0:22:07 > 0:22:08And here's a quick recap -
0:22:08 > 0:22:11just to jog your memory - of the items we're taking with us.
0:22:11 > 0:22:14We've got the Edwardian sapphire and sea pearl bracelet.
0:22:14 > 0:22:18Phil doesn't wear it, but will somebody else want to?
0:22:22 > 0:22:24She's hoping for a memorable night out
0:22:24 > 0:22:25with the proceeds from this picture.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28Let's see if Mary's study in gouache
0:22:28 > 0:22:31raises enough to show her a good time.
0:22:36 > 0:22:38The Hornby train set.
0:22:38 > 0:22:42It's been well played with, but I'm sure all proceeds will be
0:22:42 > 0:22:46welcomed by the Wirral charity Mark works for.
0:22:47 > 0:22:50And then there's Jean's First World War medals.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53The attached paperwork really brings the story
0:22:53 > 0:22:55of this lost soldier into relief.
0:23:03 > 0:23:06We're sailing across the choppy waters of the Mersey
0:23:06 > 0:23:09for today's auction, heading into the vibrant city of Liverpool.
0:23:12 > 0:23:15We'll be in the capable hands of "Flog It!" veteran, Adam Partridge.
0:23:15 > 0:23:1940 now, 5, 50, 5, 60, 5...
0:23:19 > 0:23:22Remember, if you are buying or selling in an auction room
0:23:22 > 0:23:25there is commission to pay. It varies from saleroom to saleroom.
0:23:25 > 0:23:29All the details are printed in the catalogue, or ask a member of staff.
0:23:29 > 0:23:32Here, today, at Adam Partridge's saleroom in Liverpool,
0:23:32 > 0:23:37it's %20 inclusive of VAT, so factor that in to the hammer price
0:23:37 > 0:23:41because that is always added on or, if you're selling, it's deducted.
0:23:43 > 0:23:47Well, there are plenty of browsers, but will this translate into bids?
0:23:47 > 0:23:52As everyone takes their seats, the auction gets under way.
0:23:52 > 0:23:55It's not long before our first lot comes round the bend.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59We all love our boys' toys on this show, don't we?
0:23:59 > 0:24:01You brought it to the right expert.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04I did indeed, yes. We came down and met Phil outside.
0:24:04 > 0:24:06And the rest is history.
0:24:06 > 0:24:08And the rest is history. Every penny goes to charity,
0:24:08 > 0:24:10- so it's a great cause. - It does indeed, yeah.
0:24:10 > 0:24:12Let's find out what it makes.
0:24:13 > 0:24:18Small collection of Hornby Dublo. Tin plate accessories. £30 the lot.
0:24:18 > 0:24:19Start me there, £30.
0:24:19 > 0:24:20Oh, come on. Come on.
0:24:20 > 0:24:26£20, then. 20 bid. A bid at 20. Is there 5 now? At 25 online.
0:24:26 > 0:24:30At £25... Any advance then on £25? That's it... 30 here.
0:24:30 > 0:24:3330 in the room now. At £30...
0:24:33 > 0:24:36- It's a great name, though, Hornby. - It is, it's local, isn't it?
0:24:36 > 0:24:38£30 over here. 5 online, 35.
0:24:38 > 0:24:4040, sir. For the hospice. Thank you, sir.
0:24:40 > 0:24:43- Pulling teeth, aren't we?- Yeah. - MARK LAUGHS
0:24:43 > 0:24:46We're selling in the room then at £40...
0:24:46 > 0:24:49Yes! Steaming ahead at 40 quid.
0:24:49 > 0:24:50That was great.
0:24:50 > 0:24:52And every penny will go to the charity.
0:24:52 > 0:24:53It certainly will. That's right.
0:24:53 > 0:24:56Thank you for bringing that and carry on to do all the good work.
0:24:56 > 0:24:59I will do. Thank you both very much indeed. Thanks for your help.
0:25:00 > 0:25:04A good, solid, mid-estimate sale there. I'm pleased for Mark.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08Going under the hammer right now, two First World War medals
0:25:08 > 0:25:11belonging to Jean, but with no family connection, am I right?
0:25:11 > 0:25:13- That's right, yes. - So, how did you come by them?
0:25:13 > 0:25:15Well, I found them in my loft,
0:25:15 > 0:25:17but originally they came from my mother's loft.
0:25:17 > 0:25:19With the First World War, you've got the names.
0:25:19 > 0:25:22All the research is easy to do, because it's all around the rim.
0:25:22 > 0:25:24They're all named, they're a matching pair.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26- They should be fine. They should sell.- Yeah.- Fingers crossed.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29- Yes, fingers crossed.- We're going to find out right now, Jean.- OK.
0:25:29 > 0:25:32Ready for this? Here we go. This is it.
0:25:32 > 0:25:35A nice little lot of World War I medals there.
0:25:35 > 0:25:36What about £80 for them?
0:25:36 > 0:25:3880? Is that bid straight in at 80?
0:25:38 > 0:25:40- I think we're straight in. - That's good.
0:25:40 > 0:25:41£80, straight in at 80.
0:25:41 > 0:25:43I'll take five, anywhere? At £80.
0:25:43 > 0:25:445, and 90,
0:25:44 > 0:25:46and 5, 100, 110, 120...
0:25:46 > 0:25:47Oh, my goodness.
0:25:47 > 0:25:49No, 130 this side.
0:25:49 > 0:25:50At 130.
0:25:50 > 0:25:52Any advance now on £130?
0:25:52 > 0:25:56The bid's on my right-hand side here at 130.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59That's a good sold sound.
0:25:59 > 0:26:01- So, well done, you. Thanks for bringing those in.- OK.
0:26:01 > 0:26:03- Great.- Well done, Nick, as well.
0:26:03 > 0:26:05Just above the top estimate, fantastic.
0:26:06 > 0:26:10Next up, is Mary's small study of the vessel Panama.
0:26:10 > 0:26:13Mary, I think we've hit trumps here with the right sale,
0:26:13 > 0:26:16because half of the sale here today at Adam's saleroom
0:26:16 > 0:26:17is a maritime sale.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19The walls are adorned with maritime images
0:26:19 > 0:26:21and that's exactly what you've got.
0:26:21 > 0:26:22- Yeah.- So, good luck.
0:26:22 > 0:26:25- It's a wonderful gouache.- Oh, thanks.- Why are you selling it?
0:26:25 > 0:26:28Well, it's just no interest to me, you know what I mean?
0:26:28 > 0:26:31- It wasn't mine anyway, it was an old auntie's, so I just thought...- OK.
0:26:31 > 0:26:33Had you enjoyed it on the wall?
0:26:33 > 0:26:35I haven't ever had it on the wall!
0:26:35 > 0:26:38- Oh, that's why you're selling it, girl!- It was in the loft.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42- So, good luck. We get top money right now.- Oh, thanks very much.
0:26:42 > 0:26:43Yeah, here we go.
0:26:43 > 0:26:45JS Owen, the gouache small study
0:26:45 > 0:26:48of a single funnelled vessel, Panama, there were are.
0:26:48 > 0:26:49That's rather nice, isn't it?
0:26:49 > 0:26:51And £30?
0:26:51 > 0:26:53£30 for it?
0:26:53 > 0:26:55£20?
0:26:55 > 0:26:56£20, this little gouache,
0:26:56 > 0:26:58there it is, held up for you.
0:26:59 > 0:27:01£20 for this?
0:27:02 > 0:27:04Surely, £20?
0:27:07 > 0:27:09Online, £20 is bid.
0:27:09 > 0:27:11We're starting off at 20, is there 5 anywhere?
0:27:11 > 0:27:12Oh, we've got a bid online.
0:27:12 > 0:27:17At £25. Online again at £25.
0:27:17 > 0:27:19Is that it? At £25.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21At £25, at 25.
0:27:21 > 0:27:24Saving your money for the bigger pictures, are you? At £25.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27We'll sell then online at £25.
0:27:29 > 0:27:33Sold it. He sold it to a bidder online for £25, on the reserve.
0:27:33 > 0:27:34Yeah, bang on the reserve.
0:27:34 > 0:27:37I mean, honestly, I thought it might have made a little bit more.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40- I'm disappointed.- I think the only sandwich you're going to get
0:27:40 > 0:27:42out of that is a chip butty.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44- Yeah, treat yourself. - It was worth it.
0:27:44 > 0:27:46It was worth coming just to see you both anyway.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48- Have you enjoyed it? - I've had a lovely day.
0:27:49 > 0:27:52Well, it's nice to meet up with you, too, Mary.
0:27:52 > 0:27:56And next up, it's Phil's pretty sapphire and sea pearl bracelet.
0:27:58 > 0:28:00Now, did you ever wear it?
0:28:00 > 0:28:02- No, I don't wear blue. - You don't wear...
0:28:02 > 0:28:04Oh. Strictly a red girl.
0:28:04 > 0:28:06As I got older, I realised it was very draining.
0:28:06 > 0:28:08Right, OK.
0:28:08 > 0:28:09You'll find that!
0:28:09 > 0:28:11LAUGHTER
0:28:11 > 0:28:14Really? Tell me more.
0:28:14 > 0:28:15Lilac's very good
0:28:15 > 0:28:19and any plum colour's very good for your complexion.
0:28:19 > 0:28:20Well, there you go.
0:28:20 > 0:28:23It was worth coming for this, wasn't it? Just for this.
0:28:23 > 0:28:26Right, OK, we have to monitor gold prices because it does vary,
0:28:26 > 0:28:28but fingers crossed that they're steady
0:28:28 > 0:28:29and we're going to get the top end.
0:28:29 > 0:28:31- Yeah.- Good luck, this is it.
0:28:31 > 0:28:36Late Victorian/Edwardian nine carat gold snap bangle.
0:28:36 > 0:28:38- I like it, actually. I like it a lot.- It's very nice.
0:28:38 > 0:28:39£100. Where's 10 now?
0:28:41 > 0:28:43140, 150, 160, 170?
0:28:43 > 0:28:45No, 160 here.
0:28:45 > 0:28:47SHE GASPS Oh, great, great!
0:28:47 > 0:28:49- Good money.- Yes.
0:28:49 > 0:28:51At 160, all done then?
0:28:51 > 0:28:54Anyone else, then? We're selling at 160...
0:28:54 > 0:28:55170, online.
0:28:55 > 0:28:57- Oh, look.- Yes, yes. - Late bid online, 170.
0:28:57 > 0:29:01Online and selling now at 170.
0:29:01 > 0:29:05- Yes!- Yes!- That hammer's gone down. That's a good old sound, isn't it?
0:29:05 > 0:29:08Great, that's absolutely wonderful. Really pleased.
0:29:08 > 0:29:09- Thank you so much.- Cos I liked it.
0:29:09 > 0:29:10I'm pleased we could help.
0:29:12 > 0:29:16Well, there have been some highs and some lows, but that happy result
0:29:16 > 0:29:19completes our first visit to the saleroom.
0:29:20 > 0:29:23Now, when the outbreak of the First World War was announced in 1914,
0:29:23 > 0:29:26crowds of people gathered outside Buckingham Palace
0:29:26 > 0:29:27and they all stood there cheering.
0:29:27 > 0:29:31What they didn't realise was the slaughter that was to follow,
0:29:31 > 0:29:35and quickly, casualties started arriving back in this country.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38It became quite apparent that hospitals couldn't cater
0:29:38 > 0:29:39for the beds required,
0:29:39 > 0:29:42so many private buildings became auxiliary hospitals.
0:29:42 > 0:29:46One of those wasn't far away - Dunham Massey.
0:29:46 > 0:29:48And while we were up here filming, I went to investigate.
0:29:54 > 0:29:57For around 300 years, Dunham Massey was the family home
0:29:57 > 0:30:00of the Earls of Stamford and Warrington.
0:30:02 > 0:30:05But by the outbreak of the First World War,
0:30:05 > 0:30:07the 9th Earl of Stamford had passed away
0:30:07 > 0:30:11and the estate was being run by his widow, Lady Stamford.
0:30:12 > 0:30:15She was living at Dunham with her daughter, Lady Jane.
0:30:18 > 0:30:23In 1916, Lady Stamford wrote a letter to her son telling him
0:30:23 > 0:30:25that she was thinking of turning the house over
0:30:25 > 0:30:28to a hospital for officers, because it wouldn't do for Tommies.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31But something must have changed her mind
0:30:31 > 0:30:37because in April 1917, Dunham Massey was full of rank and file Tommies.
0:30:40 > 0:30:42Have a look at these pictures.
0:30:42 > 0:30:46Any recent visitors to Dunham Massey would recognise this as the saloon.
0:30:48 > 0:30:52But during the First World War, it looked much more like this...
0:31:01 > 0:31:05The transformation of the original hospital took months to achieve.
0:31:05 > 0:31:08As you could imagine, this house was brimming full of treasures.
0:31:08 > 0:31:11First, the carpets and the chandeliers had to be removed
0:31:11 > 0:31:14and then heavy, precious pieces of furniture, works of art
0:31:14 > 0:31:17from the walls had to be put into storage and, finally,
0:31:17 > 0:31:20these faux marble columns - a technique known as scagliola,
0:31:20 > 0:31:23because they are hollow inside - had to be shuttered up
0:31:23 > 0:31:26and boxed in, exactly like they are today.
0:31:26 > 0:31:30And then, rows and rows of beds neatly put into position
0:31:30 > 0:31:33to create the ward, exactly as it is here.
0:31:33 > 0:31:37Later on, further wards were created by adding more beds.
0:31:40 > 0:31:41Over the next two years,
0:31:41 > 0:31:45nearly 300 patients were treated at Stamford Hospital.
0:31:47 > 0:31:50They came from all over Britain and abroad.
0:31:50 > 0:31:51Grievously injured,
0:31:51 > 0:31:54their journeys from the battlefields would have been torturous.
0:31:57 > 0:32:01Recreating this world was made possible by two key documents.
0:32:01 > 0:32:05One here, I have in front of me, it's a beautiful handwritten journal.
0:32:05 > 0:32:10It is the details of every single patient that's passed through the doors.
0:32:10 > 0:32:12Sister Bennett handwrote this.
0:32:12 > 0:32:14She was the nursing sister in charge of the whole hospital.
0:32:14 > 0:32:20It records the name of the person, their rank, their regiment,
0:32:20 > 0:32:24their injury, their treatment and their discharge dates.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26It's beautifully written as well.
0:32:26 > 0:32:29But what brings it to life is this recent discovery,
0:32:29 > 0:32:32this scrapbook also belonging to Sister Bennett.
0:32:32 > 0:32:35She put this together and really,
0:32:35 > 0:32:38what you can do now, is you can actually put names to faces.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41Here, look, we've got a Private Hodson.
0:32:41 > 0:32:44He was admitted on 18th October 1917,
0:32:44 > 0:32:48discharged around ten months later on 3rd June 1918.
0:32:48 > 0:32:51If you look at this photograph, the chap on the end...
0:32:51 > 0:32:54Look, there he is, Hodson. It's beautiful.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56I mean, despite appalling injuries,
0:32:56 > 0:33:00all of these guys in this photograph are smiling.
0:33:00 > 0:33:04There's a happy atmosphere, there's a positiveness about it.
0:33:07 > 0:33:10Volunteers working for the National Trust here at Dunham
0:33:10 > 0:33:13then used Sister Bennett's information to find out what happened
0:33:13 > 0:33:16to the soldiers who were treated here.
0:33:17 > 0:33:20They found many of the men went back to the front line.
0:33:20 > 0:33:23Like Corporal Arthur Topham, treated for shrapnel wounds.
0:33:25 > 0:33:28Discharged to duty in 1917.
0:33:28 > 0:33:32He was tragically killed in action just a few months later.
0:33:33 > 0:33:34Others were lucky.
0:33:34 > 0:33:38Gunner Carl Brodie was sent back to France after recovering
0:33:38 > 0:33:43from a shell wound but he survived the war and made it home to Canada.
0:33:44 > 0:33:48For some, this was just a brief respite from the horrors of war.
0:33:48 > 0:33:51But whatever their fate, while they were here,
0:33:51 > 0:33:55they received the best possible medical attention.
0:33:55 > 0:33:58Ground-breaking techniques were put into practice here,
0:33:58 > 0:33:59in this very room.
0:33:59 > 0:34:02Wounds were kept open, washed repeatedly
0:34:02 > 0:34:05to stop gangrene from setting in, that was pioneered here.
0:34:05 > 0:34:08This was an age before antibiotics,
0:34:08 > 0:34:11antibiotics weren't developed until 1928.
0:34:15 > 0:34:17Now, this puts a smile on your face. Look at this.
0:34:17 > 0:34:19This is a copy of the hospital rules.
0:34:19 > 0:34:24"Patients are asked not to smoke in the ward before 8am or after 9pm."
0:34:24 > 0:34:27But it seems the 13 hours in between is perfectly fine.
0:34:27 > 0:34:32I think the term "best care" has to be taken into context, don't you?
0:34:34 > 0:34:38Lady Stamford's daughter, Lady Jane, was only 15 when the war broke out.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42She trained as a Voluntary Aid Detachment nurse
0:34:42 > 0:34:46and soon came to work here to look after the soldiers.
0:34:47 > 0:34:51In 1991, Lady Jane sadly passed away.
0:34:51 > 0:34:55But in the 1980s, the National Trust recorded two short interviews with her.
0:34:55 > 0:34:59She recalled the area at the bottom of this grand staircase
0:34:59 > 0:35:02being turned into an operating theatre.
0:35:02 > 0:35:05Despite it being the darkest place in the house
0:35:05 > 0:35:10and rather prone to cobwebs, it was suitable because just through there
0:35:10 > 0:35:14there's a toilet and a hand basin, which was absolutely essential.
0:35:14 > 0:35:17Her most vivid memory is assisting in an operation
0:35:17 > 0:35:21with Private William Johnstone, who underwent brain surgery.
0:35:23 > 0:35:28He had a bullet in his brain, you see, and this had to be got out.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30Once they'd made the hole in the brain,
0:35:30 > 0:35:36I was given the job of shining a torch right into it and I saw
0:35:36 > 0:35:41the brain sort of pulsating and so I held the torch in front
0:35:41 > 0:35:46and saw the bullet being extracted by the surgeon.
0:35:46 > 0:35:47It was very interesting.
0:35:47 > 0:35:51You always wonder whether you're going to be a bit squeamish and
0:35:51 > 0:35:55sort of faint, but having being given the job to do,
0:35:55 > 0:35:57one forgets oneself.
0:35:58 > 0:36:02Next door, the great hall became a recreation room for patients.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05Here, soldiers could relax,
0:36:05 > 0:36:09play the piano or in the case of the hospital's longest resident,
0:36:09 > 0:36:12Percy Chaplain, find time to woo Mabel,
0:36:12 > 0:36:15one of the housemates whom he married after the war.
0:36:21 > 0:36:23The soldiers spent a lot of time outside,
0:36:23 > 0:36:25here, in the inner courtyard.
0:36:25 > 0:36:28Sister Bennett was a great advocate
0:36:28 > 0:36:31of the restorative qualities of clean, fresh air
0:36:31 > 0:36:34and some bath treatments.
0:36:34 > 0:36:37On a day like today, that's perfectly acceptable.
0:36:44 > 0:36:45As well as relaxing in the courtyard,
0:36:45 > 0:36:49soldiers were encouraged to make the most of the outside space.
0:36:49 > 0:36:54They could play croquet on the lawns or go boating on the moat.
0:36:54 > 0:36:57It's about as far as it's possible to get from the brutality
0:36:57 > 0:37:02of the front line and the contrast must have been dreamlike.
0:37:05 > 0:37:07When peace was eventually declared in 1918,
0:37:07 > 0:37:10the bells rang out again and again.
0:37:10 > 0:37:13There was singing and dancing in the wards
0:37:13 > 0:37:15and a feast was held here in the great hall.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19As one nurse recalled, "It was a festive scene as 72 of us
0:37:19 > 0:37:23"sat down to the most sumptuous repast.
0:37:23 > 0:37:24"The staff, the patients
0:37:24 > 0:37:29"and the household were all here together to celebrate peace as one."
0:37:39 > 0:37:43Welcome back to Wallasey Town Hall on the Wirral Peninsula,
0:37:43 > 0:37:45where there's still a hive of activity.
0:37:46 > 0:37:47Hundreds of people have turned up.
0:37:47 > 0:37:50The queue actually ends at the front door, look.
0:37:50 > 0:37:53And here we have this staircase, lined with enthusiastic people.
0:37:53 > 0:37:56If you go that way, I'll go this way. How are you, everyone?
0:37:56 > 0:37:58- ALL:- Hurray! - Having a good time?
0:37:58 > 0:38:00- ALL:- Yay! - And what are you going to do?
0:38:00 > 0:38:04- ALL:- Flog it! - He-he-hey! That is what it's all about.
0:38:04 > 0:38:06And as we go into this room, a little holding bay, look,
0:38:06 > 0:38:09- more people. Hi, everyone! - CHEERING
0:38:09 > 0:38:11Thank you for turning up today!
0:38:11 > 0:38:14It could be you, you or you, going home with lots of money,
0:38:14 > 0:38:15so stay with us.
0:38:15 > 0:38:17And as we go into the main hall now,
0:38:17 > 0:38:21there are literally 300 or 400 people sitting down. Look at this.
0:38:21 > 0:38:25This really is lights, camera, action. What a spectacular setting!
0:38:25 > 0:38:29So, let's join up with our experts and get on with our valuation.
0:38:29 > 0:38:33And charging ahead is Philip, even if he is a bit back to front!
0:38:33 > 0:38:36- D-R and that ship, that's JUST what we want to see.- Yes.
0:38:36 > 0:38:41- Why is that, Helga?- Because it comes from Della Robbia, in Birkenhead.
0:38:41 > 0:38:44So, Della Robbia, factory, ceramics factory,
0:38:44 > 0:38:47set up in 1894 in Birkenhead and...
0:38:47 > 0:38:49- It was short-lived, wasn't it?- Yes.
0:38:49 > 0:38:53- But it was very popular at the time. - About 15 years, something like that?
0:38:53 > 0:38:55Yes, 15, 20 years.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58- And this is a Della Robbia charger...- Yes.
0:38:58 > 0:39:01..made round about 1900, 1904,
0:39:01 > 0:39:03- something like that, I would guess. - Yes.
0:39:03 > 0:39:05So, where would this have come from?
0:39:05 > 0:39:09My husband's grandfather bought Della Robbia,
0:39:09 > 0:39:11possibly from the factory, possibly from new. I don't know.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13Oh, that's fantastic, isn't it?
0:39:13 > 0:39:15So, he would have really been a patron of the arts.
0:39:15 > 0:39:18This could possibly have been bought from the factory
0:39:18 > 0:39:21- and have been in your family from day one.- Yes, possibly.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23I think that's fantastic. I REALLY do.
0:39:23 > 0:39:25"Flog It!" has come to Wallasey...
0:39:26 > 0:39:28- ..and you want to sell your local pot.- I do.
0:39:28 > 0:39:30Why's today the day to sell it?
0:39:30 > 0:39:32- Because...of "Flog It!".- We're here!
0:39:32 > 0:39:35It's nice to see all the different faces that you
0:39:35 > 0:39:38- feel you know from television. - Ah, well, it's lovely to be here.
0:39:38 > 0:39:40And you know what? This is what the market wants.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43Real flavour of the moment. You've got a few issues with it.
0:39:43 > 0:39:47The glaze is flaking around the rim. I can sort of live with that.
0:39:47 > 0:39:53But here, look, you've got a bit of a crack. A slight crack just there.
0:39:53 > 0:39:54It's bizarre, this world.
0:39:54 > 0:39:57You can live with flaking but these fire cracks...
0:39:57 > 0:39:59I think they're going to reduce the value a little bit.
0:39:59 > 0:40:05- Have you got a figure in mind for this?- Well, I have.- Ooh...
0:40:05 > 0:40:09- Will it be as much as £100? - A little more than that.
0:40:09 > 0:40:11Would it be as much as £500?
0:40:11 > 0:40:14- A little more than that... - Hold fire!
0:40:14 > 0:40:16- You've done your homework, you, haven't you? - SHE LAUGHS
0:40:16 > 0:40:19I think this is a lovely thing. I think it's a lovely, lovely thing.
0:40:19 > 0:40:23And I think the market will really clamour for it.
0:40:23 > 0:40:25I think there will be a lot of interest in it.
0:40:25 > 0:40:29I think it could make anywhere between
0:40:29 > 0:40:31£800 and £1,000.
0:40:31 > 0:40:34£700, £900, that sort of region.
0:40:35 > 0:40:40In an ideal world, I would like to see an estimate of £700 to £900
0:40:40 > 0:40:44and a reserve, say, of £650. That would be MY ideal.
0:40:44 > 0:40:47- What were you hoping to get for it? - SHE SIGHS
0:40:47 > 0:40:51- I don't think I'd like to go below £700, probably.- OK.
0:40:51 > 0:40:53- So, if we put £700 to £900 as an estimate...- Yes.
0:40:53 > 0:40:57- ..and we put £700 as a fixed reserve...- Yes.
0:40:57 > 0:41:00- No discretion, that's it, minimum. - Yes, OK.- OK.
0:41:00 > 0:41:03Well, I think that's absolutely lovely.
0:41:03 > 0:41:05And why are you selling this particular piece then?
0:41:05 > 0:41:09It's difficult to store. I... I worry about it.
0:41:09 > 0:41:11It's the side of a wardrobe at the moment
0:41:11 > 0:41:14- and it's hardly the best place for it.- No.
0:41:14 > 0:41:17I think Della Robbia deserves better than the side of a wardrobe, really.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20- Yes, I think so. - Keep our fingers crossed!
0:41:22 > 0:41:26Eagle-eyed viewers will recognise this highly collectable pottery
0:41:26 > 0:41:30because back in 2005, we took a look at the Della Robbia
0:41:30 > 0:41:33collection at the Williamson Art Gallery.
0:41:34 > 0:41:38Because it's so rare, we've only had two previous examples on "Flog It!".
0:41:38 > 0:41:40'Helga's piece is by far the largest,
0:41:40 > 0:41:43'so it'll be interesting to see how it fares at auction.'
0:41:43 > 0:41:44Yes, the hammer's gone down!
0:41:44 > 0:41:48'But first, it's time for some more gems up on the balcony with Nick.'
0:41:50 > 0:41:53Well, Cath, where do we start? Oh, what a night!
0:41:53 > 0:41:56Oh, what a night!
0:41:56 > 0:41:59People are going, "What on earth are they going on about?!"
0:41:59 > 0:42:02Engraved on the top of this fantastic desk snuffbox,
0:42:02 > 0:42:06Victorian one, is inscribed, "Oh, what a night!"
0:42:06 > 0:42:10- What have you been up to?- The mind boggles.- The mind boggles.
0:42:10 > 0:42:16- I wonder what this night was about. Any ideas?- I shudder to think.
0:42:16 > 0:42:19Tell me where they've come from. How are they in your possession?
0:42:19 > 0:42:22They were my late father-in-law's and he used to have them
0:42:22 > 0:42:27in his glass cabinet and he lived in Bisley and he was in the forces.
0:42:27 > 0:42:34- Did he see much action?- He was a prisoner of war, Japanese.- Really?
0:42:34 > 0:42:35- Yeah.- Goodness me!
0:42:35 > 0:42:38Well, let's tell you a little bit about the box itself, shall I?
0:42:38 > 0:42:43It's Victorian, it's hallmarked in Birmingham, 1872.
0:42:43 > 0:42:48It's lovely quality. It's a real bruiser. Heavy as well.
0:42:48 > 0:42:49Often, these are quite thin.
0:42:49 > 0:42:51It's a table snuffbox, what we call,
0:42:51 > 0:42:54so slightly larger than your pocket one, obviously.
0:42:54 > 0:42:59- I thought it was a card box. - No. I think it's snuff, I really do.
0:42:59 > 0:43:04I think with the engraving round it, and with, "Oh, what a night!"...
0:43:04 > 0:43:07I'm still intrigued with that. I can't get over that!
0:43:07 > 0:43:10If we take a closer look at this one, it's absolutely fantastic and
0:43:10 > 0:43:16you can always spot quality because underneath is as good as the top.
0:43:16 > 0:43:17It's absolutely beautiful.
0:43:17 > 0:43:20All this foliate engraving, and it's a really good,
0:43:20 > 0:43:23heavy depth of gauge of engraving as well.
0:43:23 > 0:43:26And open it up, and it's pin clean inside.
0:43:26 > 0:43:30Absolutely pin clean. And a cracking hallmark in there.
0:43:30 > 0:43:34It looks like it was stamped yesterday, doesn't it? I mean...
0:43:34 > 0:43:35It's hardly been used.
0:43:35 > 0:43:40But, you know, it's back to the same question - what happened that night?
0:43:40 > 0:43:43We'll never know. We will never ever know.
0:43:43 > 0:43:45How frustrating!
0:43:45 > 0:43:49With it, we've got a little trinket box as well, silver again.
0:43:49 > 0:43:52A little problem with one of the legs. It's legless.
0:43:52 > 0:43:57With the sort of Dutch-inspired relief moulded figures on the top.
0:43:57 > 0:44:01- A little bit of a contrast to the other one.- Yeah.
0:44:01 > 0:44:04But for different things as well, little trinkets, rings,
0:44:04 > 0:44:06bits and pieces on a lady's dressing table.
0:44:06 > 0:44:10- Fashion-wise, even now, this is a little bit...- Fussy.
0:44:10 > 0:44:11- Fussy.- Yes.
0:44:11 > 0:44:14- Terribly difficult to clean, as my mum would have said.- Yes.
0:44:14 > 0:44:16If we're going to talk about the money side of things...
0:44:16 > 0:44:19- probably put them together as a lot. OK?- Yeah.
0:44:20 > 0:44:23If that was perfect, I'd probably keep them separate,
0:44:23 > 0:44:26but I just think it might put some of the buyers off, OK?
0:44:26 > 0:44:29I think that one's probably worth £200 to £300 on its own
0:44:29 > 0:44:33and that one's...probably around about 100.
0:44:33 > 0:44:37- So, I think if we put them in at 300 to 500 for the two...- Yes.
0:44:37 > 0:44:40..we can put a reserve on them. I'd put a reserve at £300.
0:44:40 > 0:44:43- I think they're worth that every day of the week.- Right.
0:44:43 > 0:44:46I can be a hard valuer. I think they'll do a little bit more.
0:44:46 > 0:44:50- What do you think about that? Are you happy?- Yes. Very nice.
0:44:50 > 0:44:54- Do you like them?- I like them, yes. - Which is your favourite of the two?
0:44:54 > 0:44:57- That one.- It's cos of the night out again, isn't it?- Yeah!
0:44:57 > 0:44:59I'm with you, Cath.
0:44:59 > 0:45:02What a great inscription to spark the imagination!
0:45:06 > 0:45:09Austin, how are you? Lovely to see you. Do you know what?
0:45:09 > 0:45:12I've seen so many good things today.
0:45:12 > 0:45:15Out of everything I've seen, I'd take these home.
0:45:15 > 0:45:17- Thank you. - I think they're fantastic.
0:45:17 > 0:45:18How have they come into your possession?
0:45:18 > 0:45:21My sister lived in a flat in London a while back,
0:45:21 > 0:45:23and she moved into a larger place.
0:45:23 > 0:45:27These were her kitchen/dining room chairs, and I've always thought
0:45:27 > 0:45:29they were a bit stylish, so I...had them off her.
0:45:29 > 0:45:32- You've got a good eye. What did you pay her?- £100.- £100.
0:45:32 > 0:45:36These are made out of oak and I would say that they dated from that
0:45:36 > 0:45:391925-1935 period.
0:45:39 > 0:45:42I think they're so stylish, with this horseshoe seat,
0:45:42 > 0:45:45and they're just such cool chairs. They really are.
0:45:45 > 0:45:47Now, I think I know who they're by.
0:45:47 > 0:45:48Heal's.
0:45:48 > 0:45:49You're right.
0:45:49 > 0:45:52Really? Right, let's just have a look.
0:45:52 > 0:45:54Oh, dear me!
0:45:57 > 0:45:58There we are, look - Heal's.
0:45:59 > 0:46:02Tottenham Court Road, London.
0:46:02 > 0:46:07This is a registration mark on here, and you can date that
0:46:07 > 0:46:10to within the year. I would suggest it's probably...
0:46:11 > 0:46:13Well, it's got 33 on the end of it,
0:46:13 > 0:46:16so there's a fair chance it might be 1933.
0:46:16 > 0:46:18Um... Have you ever given any thought
0:46:18 > 0:46:20as to what they might be worth?
0:46:20 > 0:46:25Well, I was offered £100 by a dealer for them a couple of years ago,
0:46:25 > 0:46:27which I thought was a little bit on the low side.
0:46:27 > 0:46:29So, maybe, I don't know... 150, 200 quid?
0:46:29 > 0:46:32150, 200 quid. OK, fine.
0:46:32 > 0:46:37I would put...probably £300 to £500 on them as an estimate.
0:46:37 > 0:46:41And I would put a reserve on them of £250, give the auctioneer...
0:46:41 > 0:46:43You're looking surprised.
0:46:43 > 0:46:45- Very surprised.- Really?- Yes.
0:46:45 > 0:46:46Nice surprise?
0:46:46 > 0:46:47Very nice surprise.
0:46:47 > 0:46:51We'll put a reserve of 250, but we'll give him £25 discretion.
0:46:51 > 0:46:5210% discretion.
0:46:52 > 0:46:54- Fair.- OK, that's fair.
0:46:54 > 0:46:56Of all the shows that I've done, I'm going to remember these,
0:46:56 > 0:46:59because I think they're lovely. They're a real thing of
0:46:59 > 0:47:03- the moment and they're really stylish, so thanks for bringing them, really.- It's a pleasure.
0:47:04 > 0:47:07I'm not surprised Philip's taken with these chairs.
0:47:07 > 0:47:10Heal's is a British name to be reckoned with.
0:47:10 > 0:47:13Starting out as bed makers in 1810,
0:47:13 > 0:47:16they advertised in Charles Dickens' novels...
0:47:17 > 0:47:21..later embracing the ideals of the Arts and Crafts movement
0:47:21 > 0:47:22with their furniture.
0:47:22 > 0:47:23They have a long history
0:47:23 > 0:47:26of promoting design innovation in Britain.
0:47:26 > 0:47:30It'll be interesting to see how these gems fare at auction.
0:47:34 > 0:47:37- Judith, how are you?- I'm very well. - Have you come far?
0:47:37 > 0:47:40- No, I'm from the Wirral. - From the Wirral.- Mm.
0:47:40 > 0:47:44- I think this is lovely.- Do you? - I do, yeah. And do you know what?
0:47:44 > 0:47:49When I started, sort of suitcases and vintage luggage, well,
0:47:49 > 0:47:53there wasn't such a term. They were just old things that no-one wanted.
0:47:53 > 0:47:56- This is a crocodile skin case. - I thought it might be.
0:47:56 > 0:47:59And it's just absolutely lovely. Is there anything inside?
0:47:59 > 0:48:02- There's a silver-topped box... - Silver-topped box.
0:48:02 > 0:48:03What's all that, there?
0:48:03 > 0:48:07And this was presented to my great aunt, I think,
0:48:07 > 0:48:10on her retirement from that particular company.
0:48:10 > 0:48:16I have a feeling that she was a rep and it might have been a tea company.
0:48:16 > 0:48:18- She was Esther.- Esther.
0:48:18 > 0:48:22- So she was Great Aunt Esther. - Great Aunt Esther, or Auntie Sis.
0:48:22 > 0:48:24They must have thought something of her
0:48:24 > 0:48:29because they bought her a crocodile skin case and here...
0:48:30 > 0:48:32These are actually hallmarked silver.
0:48:32 > 0:48:35Hallmarked silver and monogrammed with her initials.
0:48:35 > 0:48:37This would have been a very expensive gift.
0:48:37 > 0:48:41Now, the sad thing is that there are various bits and bobs missing.
0:48:41 > 0:48:44Don't think we'd have had this ring in there originally.
0:48:44 > 0:48:47And it's nice that we've got the retailer, Finnigans here,
0:48:47 > 0:48:52of Manchester. But I think this is a really, really lovely thing.
0:48:52 > 0:48:56When it gets sold, if we sell it, what do you think will happen to it?
0:48:57 > 0:48:59I don't know if it'd be a prop or something cos
0:48:59 > 0:49:02- I can't see anybody using it. - Can you not?
0:49:02 > 0:49:05- No.- Well, I'll tell you what I think's going to happen to it -
0:49:05 > 0:49:09I think sadly, we're going to lose Aunt Esther's plaque
0:49:09 > 0:49:11and I think these little bottles here...
0:49:11 > 0:49:15I think they're either going to get sold separately, or they might even
0:49:15 > 0:49:17- go in the melting pot...- OK.
0:49:17 > 0:49:19..and then I think someone will take all this out
0:49:19 > 0:49:23and they'll re-line it and then they'll have a really
0:49:23 > 0:49:28- fantastic crocodile little attache case.- That's good.
0:49:28 > 0:49:29And I think that's really cool.
0:49:31 > 0:49:33I'd like to own it. I think it's a lovely thing.
0:49:33 > 0:49:36The estimate really ought to be £80 to £120
0:49:36 > 0:49:39and I think we need a fixed reserve of £60 on it
0:49:39 > 0:49:42and that's going to give the auctioneer something to work with.
0:49:42 > 0:49:45And the thing I love about it, this is the ultimate recycling, isn't it?
0:49:45 > 0:49:47- I think so, yes.- You know?
0:49:47 > 0:49:49Cos someone's going to really love this and use it.
0:49:49 > 0:49:51I'd love to own this.
0:49:53 > 0:49:54Well, that's it.
0:49:54 > 0:49:57Our final items have now just been found by our experts
0:49:57 > 0:49:59and what crackers they really are.
0:49:59 > 0:50:03I think we could have one or two surprises, so don't go away.
0:50:03 > 0:50:06But what a day we've had here in Wallasey and the town hall,
0:50:06 > 0:50:09but sadly, it's time to say, "Goodbye, everybody," isn't it?
0:50:09 > 0:50:13As we head over to the auction room for the very last time today.
0:50:15 > 0:50:17So, coming across the water with us
0:50:17 > 0:50:19is this impressive Della Robbia plate.
0:50:19 > 0:50:23It has a bit of damage, but it's still highly collectible.
0:50:26 > 0:50:28And then there's Cath's Victorian silver boxes,
0:50:28 > 0:50:31with that fabulous sentiment on the snuffbox.
0:50:31 > 0:50:35This lot is sure to appeal to the bidders.
0:50:36 > 0:50:39And then there's Austin's set of Heal's chairs.
0:50:39 > 0:50:43Phil's recognised their stylish kudos, but will the bidders?
0:50:45 > 0:50:48And finally, it's Judith's travelling case.
0:50:48 > 0:50:51Exotic animal skins are not to everyone's taste, but I'm
0:50:51 > 0:50:55sure this will go on to have a new lease of life on the high street.
0:51:00 > 0:51:02It's as busy as ever at the auction house in Liverpool,
0:51:02 > 0:51:05but before the sale got under way, on the preview day,
0:51:05 > 0:51:09I caught up with Adam to get his opinion on one of my favourite lots.
0:51:11 > 0:51:14These belong to Cath. They've been in a cabinet for a long time.
0:51:14 > 0:51:17- Hopefully, we can get, you know, £300, £400.- Oh, I'm sure we will.
0:51:17 > 0:51:18- I just love this one.- So do I.
0:51:18 > 0:51:21This is a table snuffbox with a presentation inscription.
0:51:21 > 0:51:23- So it's meant to be shared around. - Yeah, absolutely right.
0:51:23 > 0:51:25But, also, normally the inscription -
0:51:25 > 0:51:28what do they say on the occasion of your wedding?
0:51:28 > 0:51:29"Oh, what a night!"
0:51:29 > 0:51:32- Yeah.- Do you think that's been given by a lady
0:51:32 > 0:51:34to her male admirer, do you think?
0:51:34 > 0:51:35- Possibly.- Yeah. - Could be, couldn't it?
0:51:35 > 0:51:38Or could it be, all the chaps were out and they had a great night
0:51:38 > 0:51:41and they thought, "We'll give this to old Charlie boy...
0:51:41 > 0:51:43"Oh, what a night!"
0:51:43 > 0:51:45I just love the potential...
0:51:45 > 0:51:49- Yeah, the social history behind it. - ..imaginative stories that could be conjured up from that.
0:51:49 > 0:51:51- And you're not going to split them up?- No.
0:51:51 > 0:51:53- No. But I think they'll easily sell. - Brilliant.
0:51:53 > 0:51:56- That's what we like to hear. - Yeah, and I think it's a great lot.
0:51:56 > 0:51:59- For me, that is one of the nicest ones.- But you have to sell that
0:51:59 > 0:52:02- to get that one away.- I think so. - I think you're right.
0:52:03 > 0:52:05Well, we'll have to wait and see how they fare
0:52:05 > 0:52:07because, with the auction getting under way,
0:52:07 > 0:52:09Adam's taking his place on the rostrum,
0:52:09 > 0:52:13and our first lot up for grabs is Helga's impressive charger.
0:52:15 > 0:52:18I've got the pleasure in saying, going under the hammer right now,
0:52:18 > 0:52:20we've got some Della Robbia from just up the road.
0:52:20 > 0:52:22We've got a fixed reserve of £700.
0:52:22 > 0:52:24This arms - sort of modelled as an arms dish, isn't it?
0:52:24 > 0:52:27- It's a wonderful charger, Helga. - Yes, it's beautiful.
0:52:27 > 0:52:29- I've got to say how fabulous you look.- Thank you.
0:52:29 > 0:52:32This is quality and I think you're a lady of quality,
0:52:32 > 0:52:33so why are you selling this?
0:52:33 > 0:52:37It's big, it's awkward to display,
0:52:37 > 0:52:39and it's pushed at the side of a wardrobe.
0:52:39 > 0:52:41- It's a thing of the moment, it really is.- It is.- Hopeful.
0:52:41 > 0:52:43Ready for this? Here we go. Fingers crossed.
0:52:43 > 0:52:45It's going under the hammer now.
0:52:45 > 0:52:48Late 19th-century Della Robbia charger. Models an arms dish.
0:52:48 > 0:52:50What a lovely lot that is.
0:52:50 > 0:52:51520, 540 I'm bid.
0:52:51 > 0:52:55At 540. Any advance on 560?
0:52:55 > 0:52:57580. 580 bid.
0:52:57 > 0:52:59At 580. 600.
0:52:59 > 0:53:03And 20. It's £600 only bid.
0:53:03 > 0:53:0420. 620 bid.
0:53:04 > 0:53:07640. 640 bid and 60.
0:53:08 > 0:53:12660 on the phone now. At £660.
0:53:12 > 0:53:16Any advance, then, on £660? Any more? 80.
0:53:16 > 0:53:18680. 700.
0:53:18 > 0:53:21- It's gone.- Sold. Yeah.
0:53:21 > 0:53:22It's gone, well done!
0:53:22 > 0:53:23At £700 alone...
0:53:23 > 0:53:27At 700. It's going to be sold at 700. Are you all done on this?
0:53:27 > 0:53:29At £700. A lovely piece,
0:53:29 > 0:53:32at £700.
0:53:32 > 0:53:35Brilliant result. Just through on the reserve. Well done!
0:53:35 > 0:53:38- And you're pleased with that, aren't you?- Yes, I'm pleased, yes.
0:53:38 > 0:53:40- And, hopefully, the new owner will be pleased.- Exactly.
0:53:40 > 0:53:44Well, it just got there and I'm pleased for Helga.
0:53:45 > 0:53:49Next up is Judith's travelling case.
0:53:50 > 0:53:53We've got some real style and quality going under the hammer
0:53:53 > 0:53:56right now, just like its owner, Judith. Good to see you.
0:53:56 > 0:53:58- Thank you.- This is lovely.
0:53:58 > 0:54:00And Philip zoomed in on this, didn't you?
0:54:00 > 0:54:02I mean, it is just superb quality,
0:54:02 > 0:54:04and quality always sells.
0:54:04 > 0:54:07- I believe so. And I'm hoping so. - Why are you selling this?
0:54:07 > 0:54:10We've got no use for it in our home, and I've got a couple of sons
0:54:10 > 0:54:12getting married in the next year or so,
0:54:12 > 0:54:15so I thought I would put the money towards the brides' flowers.
0:54:15 > 0:54:18- Yes, that's about... - That's nice, isn't it?- From my mum.
0:54:18 > 0:54:21- Aww. That's nice, isn't it?- Yes. - Good luck, both of you.
0:54:21 > 0:54:23Here we go. Let's put it to the test.
0:54:23 > 0:54:26Lovely lot, this one. The lady's crocodile toilet case.
0:54:28 > 0:54:30It's worth that. 80's bid online.
0:54:30 > 0:54:33- At £80, 5. In the room, 85. - That's good.
0:54:33 > 0:54:37£95. In the room now, 95.
0:54:37 > 0:54:40To the phone, then - 100. 110. 120.
0:54:40 > 0:54:42130. 140.
0:54:42 > 0:54:45150. 160.
0:54:45 > 0:54:47170. 180.
0:54:48 > 0:54:50190. 200.
0:54:50 > 0:54:53- A phone bid's always comforting, isn't it?- Yes.
0:54:53 > 0:54:55200 bid. 10. 210 in the room.
0:54:55 > 0:54:57At 210 over here now.
0:54:57 > 0:54:59At 210. 220 bid.
0:54:59 > 0:55:01At 220 on the phone now...
0:55:01 > 0:55:06- Phone line - 220, he's asking for. - Good move.
0:55:06 > 0:55:09On the phone at £220.
0:55:09 > 0:55:11They've snapped up the crocodile case.
0:55:11 > 0:55:14£220, we'll sell this then.
0:55:14 > 0:55:16On the phone at £220.
0:55:16 > 0:55:18At 220.
0:55:18 > 0:55:22Philip, well done. Yes. And you've got to be over the moon with that.
0:55:22 > 0:55:24I am. Indeed, I am. It's lovely.
0:55:24 > 0:55:27Well, sold for almost four times the reserve!
0:55:29 > 0:55:33Now, let's hope Phil's prediction on the next lot is as accurate.
0:55:34 > 0:55:36Going under the hammer now we've got a set of four
0:55:36 > 0:55:39Heal's chairs. It's a retailer synonymous with quality.
0:55:39 > 0:55:42It comes from the Tottenham Court Road in London and I love these.
0:55:42 > 0:55:45It's style and I don't know why you're selling them, actually.
0:55:45 > 0:55:47Well, they're surplus to requirements.
0:55:47 > 0:55:48Philip, good luck with this.
0:55:48 > 0:55:52I would really love to own these, I think they're such a cool lot,
0:55:52 > 0:55:56and if they don't make the top end of £500, there's no justice at all.
0:55:56 > 0:55:57Let's find out what this lot think.
0:55:57 > 0:55:59Let's hand the proceedings over to Adam.
0:56:01 > 0:56:05Interest here straight in at £200. At £200, the Heal's chairs.
0:56:05 > 0:56:07We've got a reserve at 250.
0:56:07 > 0:56:10At 200... £200. Is there 10 anywhere? At 200...
0:56:11 > 0:56:15- At 200 it is, then. At £200.- No.
0:56:15 > 0:56:17We'll have to see about those.
0:56:17 > 0:56:21- My advice to you would be put them in a 20th-century modern sale.- Mm.
0:56:21 > 0:56:24- £50 a chair for those is a nonsense, in my view.- Yes, it is, really.
0:56:24 > 0:56:27It needs to go with things that are surrounded from that period
0:56:27 > 0:56:29because people will buy into that.
0:56:29 > 0:56:31I wish Austin all the best with those chairs
0:56:31 > 0:56:34and I'm sure they will attract the interest they deserve.
0:56:35 > 0:56:38Finally, it's time for our last lot of the day,
0:56:38 > 0:56:41and you'll have to forgive me if I break into song.
0:56:41 > 0:56:43# Oh, what a night Late December... #
0:56:43 > 0:56:44That's the song, wasn't it?
0:56:44 > 0:56:46I've forgotten who sang it but it is Oh, What A Night,
0:56:46 > 0:56:48because it's on that snuffbox.
0:56:48 > 0:56:50Cath, good luck with this.
0:56:50 > 0:56:52I had a chat to Adam on the preview day, yesterday.
0:56:52 > 0:56:55- The snuffbox - we've got two items of silver in your lot.- Yeah.
0:56:55 > 0:56:57Adam's not separated them because the snuffbox is going to get
0:56:57 > 0:57:00- the trinket box away.- Yeah. - That's kind of how it works
0:57:00 > 0:57:03- in the auction business, isn't it? - Bit of damage to the trinket box as well.
0:57:03 > 0:57:06- Yeah, but, oh, what a night. Oh, what a day! - PAUL LAUGHS
0:57:06 > 0:57:09And it's going under the hammer right now
0:57:09 > 0:57:11and, hopefully, it's going to hit the roof. Here we go.
0:57:11 > 0:57:13Birmingham, 1872.
0:57:13 > 0:57:16It comes with another Victorian box
0:57:16 > 0:57:18with the engraving of, "Oh, what a night!"
0:57:18 > 0:57:21I've never seen anything like it. Great thing. £300, please.
0:57:21 > 0:57:24Bid, at £300. I'll take 20.
0:57:24 > 0:57:26At 300. 20. 340. 360.
0:57:26 > 0:57:28380. 400. And 20.
0:57:28 > 0:57:30440. 440's in front, here.
0:57:30 > 0:57:33At 440. You're out, Desmond. It's 440 down here.
0:57:33 > 0:57:37At 440. A lovely lot. Is there any more on this then?
0:57:37 > 0:57:40At 440. We shall sell, then, in the row,
0:57:40 > 0:57:42at £440.
0:57:44 > 0:57:47- Spot-on there, weren't you, really? - Brilliant. Yeah, good.
0:57:47 > 0:57:49- Thank you very much.- You're happy as well, aren't you?- Yes.
0:57:49 > 0:57:52- Yeah, there is commission to pay, but it's a lot of money.- Yes.
0:57:52 > 0:57:56- So you're going to pamper yourself. - Can have your own, "Oh, what a night!" now, can't you?
0:57:56 > 0:57:59Don't tell me husband! LAUGHTER
0:57:59 > 0:58:02I think the cat might be out the bag now, Cath,
0:58:02 > 0:58:05but I'm sure you'll have a great night out, anyway.
0:58:09 > 0:58:11It's all over for our owners. As you can see,
0:58:11 > 0:58:14the auction is still going on, but what a day we've had here.
0:58:14 > 0:58:17Lots of highs and lots of lows, and some maybes,
0:58:17 > 0:58:21but that's auctions for you - you never know what's going to happen,
0:58:21 > 0:58:23so join us again next time for more surprises.
0:58:23 > 0:58:26But, until then, from Liverpool, it's goodbye.