Ardingly 18 Bargain Hunt

When 1,500 dealers take the trouble to get together to form

what is the largest antiques fair in the south of England,

it only seems reasonable that we should come along.

So let's go bargain hunting, yeah!

Welcome to Ardingly.

With this number of stalls, frankly, our teams will have to go like stink

if they're going to succeed in their quest

to spend £300 on three items in only an hour.

But here's a quick peek at what's coming up.

The Reds say what they think.

-What do you think?

-Horrible.

-LAUGHTER

I think we've spent too much time talking.

While the Blues go from barking bargains...

-I quite like that little dog with the big ears.

-It looks like our dog!

..To a load of old bull.

-That would look nice in my front room.

-I'm sure it would.

-No!

But, as ever, the auction house is where our teams are made!

Yes!

-Or flayed!

-Deathly hush out there.

So today we've got two teams of married couples.

For the Reds, we've got Jean and Richard.

And for the Blues, we've got Kelly and Keith. Hello, everyone!

-ALL: Hello!

-Lovely to see you. Now, how did you two hook up?

-It was a blind date.

-Was it?

-Yes.

-She was blind and I was the date.

-Yes, not with our Cilla though.

No, we did it all on our own. Actually, we were introduced by somebody.

Yes. And you've spent years entertaining the Brits abroad. Tell us about that.

-Yeah, we had quite a bit of fun, didn't we?

-We did indeed.

-Working on the radio across in southern Spain.

-Oh, yes.

We had our own programme together.

And did this programme start with you both in it? How was that?

-No, it didn't, did it?

-No, definitely not, no.

Just you on your own, initially, and I went in just to help him,

just to take down telephone numbers and that sort of thing.

Until, one day, he just put the microphone up.

-And I didn't realise that and I was on air.

-Having a chat?

-Having a chat.

-Not one of those chats, I hope.

-No, no!

-And then we had people phoning up saying, "We want Jean."

-Very good, too.

-So, Jean, you used to be a nurse?

-I did used to be a nurse, yes.

And were you the equivalent of Hattie Jacques on the ward?

I'm afraid I was! I was indeed!

-Were you dark blue with one of those...?

-I was dark blue, yes!

-You ran the joint, in other words.

-I did run the joint, yes.

-Brilliant!

And what's this about the interest in aeronautical things?

Right from being a kid, really, I suppose,

Dad took me to the local air show, up in Yorkshire.

And I got a great feeling for aviation and I joined the Air Cadets.

And, from there, I did a bit of time in the Royal Air Force.

And I still have that keen aviation lilt.

-If you come across something collectable, you'll go for it?

-I will indeed!

You've got quite an eclectic mix. I should think the Special K's are quaking in their boots!

-LAUGHTER

-I mean, what are these guys on, eh?

-So how did you two meet, Kelly?

-We worked together for 15 years.

We didn't really talk at first, but then, after 15 years...

-Were you shy?

-I was shy, yes, yes.

-Working in a garage with lots of mechanics.

-These beefy blokes.

-Yes.

-You didn't want to reveal your true feelings.

-No.

-I can understand that.

-So what keeps you busy then, Keith?

-I like metal detecting, finding old coins.

I haven't found any of value at the moment, but I love finding 'em.

You never know with that lark. You read about these hoards.

-Exactly.

-Somewhere in the middle of nowhere, someone comes up with half a million quids' worth!

-There's a few round us that have been found recently, local, so...

-Really?

-I'm searching.

-Yes.

-I'm getting there!

Now, you've got a bit of a menagerie at home, apart from the children.

We have, yes. We have a one-eyed Staffy dog, which we rehomed from the Dog Trust.

-We've got 11 chickens.

-Yes.

They get on really well. They run around the garden together.

-What, Staffy doesn't mind?

-No, loves 'em to bits.

-I suppose it helps if Staffy's only got one eye.

-Yeah, can't see 'em!

-Chasing them!

-And the dog's favourite friend is a ferret.

-Really?

-She loves a ferret, yeah. Spend loads of time together.

-How extraordinary.

So what are your tactics going to be today, Keith?

Erm, I think we're going to look for something that WE would like.

-Right.

-And probably something really out the blue, unusual.

So on the basis that you've got exquisite taste,

-and anything you like, somebody else is going to like...

-Yep.

-So that's going to be the way you go.

-We normally like the same things, so...

-We agree, so...

-So, no falling out then?

-No.

-No.

-Well, we've seen these predictions before.

And it all goes horribly wrong! We shall see, anyway. Good luck.

Now, £300 apiece. Your money moment. There you go, £300.

You know the rules. Your experts await and off you go!

And very, very good luck. Well, they seem very chirpy, don't they?

What a finely matched pair of teams.

We need some experts to suit.

On hand to help the Reds is the perfectly balanced Anita Manning.

And with the Blue team is the evenly keeled but windswept Mark Stacey.

Who will tip the scales in their favour?

As if I'm going to tell you that!

I heard a wee rumour that you guys want to blow ALL your money.

We do, Anita. We do!

What's your plan and strategy for the day?

Well, I like classic car bits, model cars...

We're going to keep a little bit for you.

-Oh, thank you!

-Obviously, for our bonus buy.

-Just a little bit.

Otherwise, yes, we want to blow the lot.

And I like collectables. I'm a big kid at heart, so I like toys and...

-Well, I think we've got our work cut out.

-We have.

-Cos I don't know anything about any of those.

What I want is for you guys to buy what you love.

-I hope we make a profit, of course.

-Yes. Because we want one of those little gavel jobs.

-Well, let's go to it.

-Fantastic.

-Okey-doke.

-Let's do it! OK?

-Shall we head off?

-Yes!

-Come on then.

-Oh, look! Here we go! Straight to the pretty stuff.

-A-huh.

That's Mdina glass from Malta.

And it's lovely stuff. It's probably from the 1960s, 1970s.

-Is this of the same ilk?

-It's the same, yes.

-This is a little bit like you and me, isn't it?

-I like that.

-The long and the short of it.

-Oh!

Well, the long and the short of it is, you've only got an hour, so don't hang about, teams!

-If we get stuck, we can come back to that.

-And the dealer isn't here at the moment.

-But I like your taste.

-Thank you!

-LAUGHTER

Speaking of taste, Mark's endeavouring to steer our Blues down a classical path.

-Do you like Art Nouveau? Do you know what Art Nouveau is?

-Yes, I like it.

-It just a very organic form, isn't it?

-Yeah.

-I quite like that little dog with the big ears.

Oh well, we tried!

-It looks like our dog.

-It looks like your dog?

I have to be honest with you, it doesn't terribly appeal to me, but it's your show.

-Yes.

-So if you like it...

-I quite like it.

-Do you want to have a closer look?

-Yes, is that OK?

-May we have a look?

-Please do.

-Thank you.

-Let me take my glove off, so I don't drop it.

Is it Denby?

Yeah, it's Danesby Ware. "Bourne, Denby".

-I really like that.

-It's quite naively made, isn't it? Maybe that's its charm.

-He has got a sort of sad-looking charm about him.

-Yeah.

He's got no chips or cracks or breaks. He looks in good condition.

Well, he won't have, unless I drop him.

Try to resist the temptation, Mark!

-What sort of figure have you got on it?

-Well, I'd say 50.

50. Can we tweak you under the 50? I don't want to push you too much.

-What's your idea of tweaking?

-Er, 40.

-How about we meet in the middle?

-45?

-Yes.

-Or 42 maybe?

-46?

-Oh!

LAUGHTER

-At 45, I'd...

-45.

-45 he'd do it for.

-Yeah.

-I really like that.

-I think you've got a deal, sir. Thank you very much.

-Thank you.

Well done, Blue team. It wasn't Mark's cup of tea,

but you know what they say about old dogs and new tricks.

-Are you happy?

-Yeah!

-I honestly don't know what it will do.

-It caught my eye when we were walking down.

-Then you must have it.

-Denby as well.

-Yes. No, you must have it. If you like it, you must have it.

-I really like it.

-Good.

-Girls!

-He doesn't hang about, does he?

-No, he doesn't!

Look! This would be fantastic for my dinner! Look at it.

Try and keep your mind on the game, Richard!

-What do you think?

-Horrible.

-LAUGHTER

No! Say what you really think, Jean.

OK, it's Delft. Dutch.

-Probably from about the 1950s. Now, blue and white is still popular.

-Mm.

-And this is a big chunk.

-It's £24, marked at.

-Tenner for you!

-Is that a good price?

-It's not a lot of money.

-He's saying £10.

-£10?!

-But is it worth the risk, Anita?

-Oh, yes!

-You've changed your mind!

-I know!

-LAUGHTER

Suddenly, it's the prettiest plate they've ever seen.

-At ten quid, it's certainly worth the risk.

-Yeah, yeah.

-You think so?

-Shall we?

-£10?

-I think £10 is, er...

-Can we have that?

-We can't go wrong, can we?

-We can't go wrong!

Are you sure about ten quid? That's fantastic. Deal?

- Yeah, deal. - Good man!

Let's see if it brings a pretty penny at auction. Still, well done, Reds. You've done your first deal.

So, we've not been going five minutes and both teams are well on their way.

-Time will go quickly if we're not careful.

-Yep.

-Do you like furniture or...?

-Erm...

-Not furniture lovers, I must admit.

-Jean!

-Yes.

Richard loves all things to do with aviation and aeroplanes.

-That's right. Yeah, yeah.

-Yeah!

I didn't like the tone of that "yeah".

You could say I'm a bit of a high flier, but anyway.

-Does he drive you nuts?

-He's an anorak.

-Is he?

-He is.

-What does he do?

-He gets on the computer

and he follows all the flight paths.

And then he shows me. "Look at all these aircraft."

It's only cos I've got friends who are pilots. I can say, "That's so-and-so." You know?

-And he's flying everywhere.

-Do you not find that very exciting?

-No!

-She'd rather be on the plane.

-She'd rather be on the plane!

I don't blame you, Jean. Now, focus, Reds!

You've got one under your belt, but time will fly.

Mark's doing his level best to bring some quality to the Blue's shopping experience. But at what price?

This is a beautiful George III tea caddy,

with little strips of ivory and silver mounts.

-But it's £1,500.

-Cor!

-So it's a bit above our budget.

-But isn't it wonderful?

-Very pretty.

-It's lovely.

-Could I look?

-What?

-At this.

-Yes.

-This folds up, you see, like that.

-Oh, yeah!

-It's 285, so it's a bit...

Oh, Mark, stop showing off. Let's go for something a bit cheaper, eh?

I think animal-loving Keith's got a one-track mind.

-Almost Persian, isn't it?

-Mm.

-Yes.

-With the dagger.

You could repaint that with gold highlights,

-on the crown and things.

-It looks like stone as well.

-You're not impressed, are you?

-No!

-Good.

-No.

Ten minutes gone and both teams have one in the old bag.

£65. That's a lot of money, isn't it?

But that is lovely, isn't it? Let me have a wee look at it.

Where would you say that originated?

Is it English? Surely not.

-The pattern is slightly exotic.

-Yes.

There's something inside. A little purse.

-A-huh. What would you keep in that?

-Money.

-Housekeeping?

-Well, that's all I get!

-Is that all you get?

That's terrible!

But the thing is, I'll tell you what it's got -

-bags of style.

-It has.

-Ooh!

-LAUGHTER

-Ha-ha! That Glaswegian wit!

It's made of leather and we have this sort of slightly exotic design.

-I would say that it's Art Deco in shape.

-Mm.

I like the chrome. It's in good condition.

-Let's talk to the dealer. Do you know anything about this?

-No.

-No?!

-I'm not into handbags.

-Are you not into handbags?

Well, he didn't think he was into handbags either!

-But he thought it was lovely.

-He looks good in a frock as well!

He couldn't wear high heels, he'd bang his head on the ceiling.

This really is going downhill, isn't it? It's a nightmare.

If I said to you, right, 40 quid? Would you be happy at 40 quid?

- We've got 65 on it. - Yeah.

Erm, 45.

- 45? - 45.

- I'm not happy with 45. I can't, no. - I'm not happy with 40.

Go for it, Richard!

-What do you reckon, Anita?

-I reckon we've got a couple of professionals here.

- No, no, no! Go on, 40 quid. Go on! - I've got to eat tonight.

- 40 pounds. It's a good deal. - Go on then.

-Ah!

-I like you!

That's what I like to see, forceful bargaining and a firm handshake.

I'm still picturing him in a frock though. Good work, Reds! Two items bought and bagged.

These fairs are packed to the rafters,

so it pays to look up and down to see what's around.

-That's quite sweet.

-What the stool?

-Yeah.

-It's got funny legs, hasn't it?

-Yeah. They're like little lion feet.

Animals and furniture? Will we all be happy here?

-That is quite fun, isn't it?

-That's nice.

-It's a sort of foot stool.

-In a Georgian style, I think.

-It's nice.

-If this was a period one, you'd be looking at 1740, 1750.

-Yep.

-I think we're looking at sort of 1920s, really.

-It's got that sort of Chinese carving on it.

-Yep.

What I like about stools like that is if the feet are going to walk off in different directions.

-And it does look like they've had an argument.

-It does!

-I love the faces.

-They're big feet as well, aren't they?

-And it's priced 55.

-55.

-I think the other one is almost identical.

-That one?

-It's just lower for some reason.

-Yeah.

-Chinese stool.

-What have I got on that?

-Well, you've got 55 on there.

What have I got on that one? I haven't got my glasses on.

It looks like £6.50.

We all love a trier!

I'll do the two...

for 60.

-Oh, gosh! I think they're quite nice.

-I really like them.

-They would appeal to a fine arts sell. I was going to be a bit cheeky.

-Here we go!

That's not like you, Mark.

I was sort of looking at around 50.

-50.

-Well, we'll have to do the usual thing people do.

-And say, "I'll meet you in the middle!"

-That's it!

-"At 52."

-At 55.

LAUGHTER

-That will give you a good chance.

-What do you think, guys?

-I think we've got to go for it.

-Yeah.

-Without a doubt.

-Let's shake his hand.

-Thank you very much.

-55.

-Thank you very much.

-Thank you.

-And good luck.

-Thank you.

So both teams are doing well. Two items each with 15 minutes gone.

We'll have to shorten the show at this rate.

-Well, you really are cooking today, aren't you?

-Mm.

That's our second purchase in less than 15 minutes or so.

Two stools for £55. It's almost a "bog off".

Buy one, get one free.

Well, I think they're really charming. There's a chance we might make a profit.

-But we can't put our feet up just yet.

-No.

Cos we've still got one more thing to find. So let's go.

-I think this thing has got to be unusual.

-Yes.

-And a bit more valuable.

-Yes.

-Valuable and unusual and different.

Good luck with that, Blues.

-Guys.

-Mm.

-What happened to the grand plan?

The plan where you were going to spend all your money?

We've had 50 minutes. You've bought two things and you've spent...

-50 quid.

-I think we've spent too much time talking.

Come on. We've got a lot of work to do and a lot of money to spend.

-Cos we don't want to leave you with too much. Come on.

-Aw! He's so masterful, isn't he?

Oh, I know, I know!

Keith's animal obsession is becoming ridiculous.

-How about this?

-No.

-Why not?

-No!

-That would look nice in my front room.

-I'm sure it would, but we're not buying that.

And we're not here to redecorate your front room, Keith!

-It's been good fun, hasn't it? So far.

-It's been great fun, yes.

-Anita's great.

-I've been surprised because we've gone for items

that we didn't actually think that we were going to buy.

I think we're buying with our eyes at the moment.

-We've got to spend a bit more.

-I know.

-Cos 50 quid, that's not a lot.

And I sit at home and see people that spend under £100 and I think, "Nah!"

-Well, come on then! Let's get on and do it.

-Yeah!

Well said, Richard. Let's get spending!

Are we looking down the middle, or down the outside?

-Oh!

-Oh, and it's raining!

LAUGHTER

What's that little thing? I think that is a pencil sharpener.

Oh!

Are these a set? The two boxes a set?

No, they're £12 a box.

They're £12 a box?! OK.

There's so much stuff to choose from. Are we going to do it in an hour? Have we got enough time?

-Mark's very helpful.

-Yeah, very helpful.

I've looked at a few things that he sort of steered me away from, which is I think is a good decision.

Mostly animal related.

I think we might go back for those lovely vases.

-Oh, yes, the Mdina.

-The Maltese vases.

-Mdina, yes.

-Mdina vases.

-What was it, £40?

-£45.

The other one was absolutely lovely.

-The one that wasn't priced?

-The one that wasn't priced.

-That's gorgeous.

-The one that was half cut?

-Yes.

A bit like me sometimes.

While the Reds agree their tactics, the Blues have found

a rather eye-catching battle plan of their own.

I mean, it's quite interesting.

There are a lot of people who like military stuff.

And this is a late 19th-century print in a maple frame.

But it's the Battle of Abu Klea, I think.

It's interesting from the point of view that the red coats are all in a square.

And I believe that's the first time they formed that sort of defensive strategy.

And even when they broke through, they reformed and, actually, won that battle.

-It's a nice size, as well.

-Well, it's interesting.

-What do you think, Kelly?

-I do quite like it, actually.

-Do we know how much the lady wants?

Well, she quoted me 125.

-I could see that in somebody's house, but...

-In auction, do you think it would make money?

It could do. I can't guarantee it, because it's quite a unique item. I've never seen anything like it.

-I think we're interested in this, aren't we?

-Yes.

-So it's a matter of whether the lady will help us out,

re: the price.

-Can we make you an offer on this?

-Of course.

We would love to get it just under the 100. Is there any chance?

-I'm sorry.

-No? Well, you said 125. What would be the very best you could do?

-I'd like 115.

-115?

The thing that fascinates me is, we've only been here a few minutes,

-and there's lots of people looking as they pass.

-Yep.

-So there's something about it. It's a bit of a chance, but...

-Yes.

-..I think we should take it.

-Yeah.

-Yeah.

-Definitely.

-100%?

-Yes, I am, yes.

-Yes?

-Yeah, 100%. I'm happy with that.

-We'll give it a go. Thank you very much.

-Thank you very much.

-Thank you.

-Well done, guys. Something very interesting there.

Blimey, Blues! You've whizzed round this fair with all guns blazing,

clocking up three items in less than half an hour!

Well, that's a surprise, isn't it?

-Three items, 30 minutes.

-Yep.

-Three different items.

-Yep.

-We're all very, very happy?

-BOTH: Very happy.

-Yeah.

-In that case, which one of you is going to make me a cup of tea?

-She's a good tea maker.

-Come on, Kelly.

-Let's go.

So while the Blues relax with a cuppa, the Reds' hunt goes on.

-Anita.

-Yeah.

-What do you think about this?

-Oh, that's lovely!

-Most unusual.

-I think it's absolutely beautiful.

-A-huh.

I like so much about this. The unusual shape is good.

The base of it is cut here in this lovely star pattern,

-so that's of quality, because you don't usually see the bottom of something.

-No!

-It's smashing. But what's so good about this...

-I love it!

-..is the wonderful top.

-Is that a pewter lid?

-Yeah.

It's a white metal. It's Art Nouveau.

And we've got these sort of sinuous, natural forms,

which are patterning this mount.

-I like that.

-I love it.

-I think it's very, very nice.

-I like that. That is unique.

-I think that, because it's unusual, it will appeal to the buyers.

-Yeah.

-It's not just the common fodder that comes through.

-I think if that's shown at auction, people will say, "Hey, that's nice."

-"That's lovely."

-"That's unusual."

-So...

-I like that.

-Nice claret jug. We do like it.

-It's priced up at 145.

-Is it up to me again to have a go at the chap behind the counter?

-Yes.

-Do you want him to do it?

-Yeah.

Go on, Richard! You know you want to.

I tell you what, girls, leave it to me.

-Let's go!

-Go on!

If you get this, it will be one of the fastest Bargain Hunts on record.

Huh!

-Richard!

-Come on! Come on!

-Look, I like a bit of a sob story.

-Right.

-He's a nice guy. OK? Now he told me the truth.

I believe him, cos I'm a salesman. He said he bought it for 110 quid.

-Right.

-So I thought, "If I offer him 100 quid, that's no good."

-Right.

-So I offered him 120.

-Yes?

-No.

-No.

-No?

-No.

But he accepted 125.

-Yes!

-Yes!

-Well done, Richard.

-Well done.

-He's good.

-Oh, that's all right then.

-He's good.

-I think we've got a bargain there.

-I think it's a lovely item.

-I can't wait to get that to auction.

-I know, I know.

-Let's have a cup of tea.

-That's the best idea you've had all day!

-A triumphant cup of tea.

-Yes!

Well, both teams done in half an hour. We're going to have to make the rules harder.

While both teams enjoy their tea, let's remind ourselves what the Reds bought.

-Fantastic for my dinner. Look at it! What do you think?

-Horrible!

Aviation-mad Richard got the Reds off to a flying start

with this £10 plate. Then they snapped up this Art Deco handbag

and haggled their way to a £40 deal.

Finally, they can toast their super-fast shopping

with this Art Nouveau claret jug. Just a knockdown price of £125.

-Is it up to me again to have a go at the chap behind the counter?

-Yes.

-Did you enjoy that, folks?

-We loved it!

-Fantastic!

-Brilliant time.

-You had a good time, didn't you, Jean?

-We had a brilliant time, thank you very much.

-Lovely.

-Tell me, Richard, which is your favourite piece?

-I'm going to go for the claret jug.

-And is that going to bring the biggest profit?

-I don't think so. I think the plate may well do.

-The plate. Do you agree with that, Ricardo?

-I don't know. I'm a little bit sceptical.

Now, listen, what did you spend all round?

-£175.

-So I'd like £125 of leftover lolly, please.

-OK.

-Well done. You don't like parting with that.

-I don't, no.

But I know somebody who likes receiving it.

-What are you going to spend it on, Anita?

-Well, they were such a colourful couple.

-I think I'll have to buy something colourful.

-Ah, there's a hint there, perhaps.

Anyway, relax up, all and sundry. Meanwhile, we'll check out what the Blue team bought, eh?

Within minutes, the Blues bought this Denby dog to heel, £45.

Sit!

There was more haggling afoot

when they bought these Chinese stools for £55.

Finally, they drew up the battle lines

when they bought this military print for £115.

-Well, I'm amazed, because you've chosen some quite interesting things.

-We have.

Well, don't be too amazed!

-Anyway, did you have a good time?

-Brilliant.

-Very good time.

-Which is your favourite piece, Keith?

-It's the dog.

-Is it?

-Definitely, the dog. The first piece we saw and we bought it in the first four minutes.

-Well, there you go.

And will it bring the biggest profit, do you think, Kelly?

-I think the painting of the war, the military picture, will bring the most money.

-Do you?

-How much did you spend?

-215.

-That's a very nice number.

-£85 of leftover lolly.

-We have, yes.

-Thank you very much.

-There you go, Tim.

-Thank you. £85.

-I can trust you. I won't even count it.

-Thank you, Tim.

-What are you going to do with that, Mark?

-I'm going to find them something completely different.

-Something they won't expect, hopefully.

-Oh! Are you intrigued?

-I am!

-I am.

We'll see about that later. Anyway, good luck! Good luck, Mark.

Meanwhile, we're heading off westwards.

Basildon Park in Berkshire is one of the finest houses of its type.

On the facade, it seems to follow a classical form.

But inside, things are just a bit more complicated.

By the early 1950s, the house had been stripped bare and was facing demolition.

Thanks to the vision, efforts and cash of Lord and Lady Iliffe,

who bought Basildon Park in 1952,

the house was saved.

Lady Iliffe took a particular interest

in its decoration and refurnishing.

Indeed, what we see today

is largely due to her extensive researches and jolly hard work.

Lady Iliffe was well aware that at Basildon in the 18th century

there was a celebrated shell-strewn grotto.

And it was decided in the 1970s to recreate a shell room

inside the house itself.

And Gordon Davies was commissioned to come up with this shell room decoration.

And what an extraordinary effect it has.

All these surfaces, literally,

plastered with what must be, nigh on, a million shells.

In this one, we've got a geometric arrangement of pinkish, clam-like shells,

laid flat and interposed with a different shaped shell.

And then on this one, in a very theatrical way,

they're arranged in festoons.

If you look carefully, each one is raised.

There's a 3-D effect here, where the shells have been interposed

with lumps of coral.

The middle table is covered with geological specimens.

And here we've got some items which display cameo work.

Here is a Surin shell.

The outer surface is rough and green.

But when you cut through to the lustrous surface of the nacre inside,

it's iridescent and it takes a good bit of carving.

This one is a much more traditional-looking piece

of shell cameo.

If you were to cut this panel out of the shell itself and put it in a gold mount,

it would look just like every granny's cameo brooch.

As it is, it's rather nice to see it carved in the solid.

This clam shell has been carved probably in Japan or China.

It's what's called reticulated,

where you pierce it rather like the holes in a colander.

The background is elaborate.

We've got stylised prunus here and cloud bands.

All very typical of oriental art.

Of course, no collection of shells would be complete without one of these!

A sailor's shell valentine.

Here we've got the traditional heart, the emblem of love.

On the other side, we've got, literally, hundreds of shells,

this time arranged in geometric panels with all those lovely colours.

Beautiful.

There is a bit of a fraud though going on here,

because once upon a time it was thought that the sailors arranged all these shells,

in those long journeys when they hadn't got much to do.

Actually, most of the shells were arranged by Barbadian traders.

I think I've taken a bit of the romance away there.

The big question today though for our teams over at the auction is,

what sort of arrangement of profits are we going to discover?

If you set off from Ardingly and you walked, more or less, in a straight line,

to Canterbury, it would be about 62 miles.

And you'd finish up at the Canterbury Auction Galleries with Tony Pratt.

-Just like us. Lovely to be here, Tony.

-Glad you made the journey.

The Reds bought this blue and white Delft plate.

-Modern. Any good?

-It's modern, it's decorative.

-Boring?

-I wouldn't say that.

-It is decorative and it's probably a very good value buy.

-How much?

-We put 10-15 on it.

-Perfect! They paid £10.

Next up is their so-called "Art Deco" handbag.

These fashion accessories - all this sort of stuff is very collectable. But are little handbags any good?

It's practical, so I think a young lady might look very attractive carrying that.

-What, and actually take it out?

-Yes, why not?

-For a night in Canterbury?

-Yes.

-Ah!

-So what's it worth?

-Again, I've been a bit modest and said £10-£15.

-OK, £40 paid.

-Full price.

Next is the Austrian cut-glass,

metal-mounted claret jug.

Good quality thing this in its day, wasn't it?

The body is very nicely cut. The mounts aren't quite so good.

-It's probably Austrian, about 1900.

-I see a nasty chip here. That can't help.

Yes, that's difficult. You really can't do much about that.

That's why the estimate is at a modest level.

-And what do you call a modest level?

-I think we put £50-£70 on it.

-That is modest.

-Cos they paid £125!

-Oh, dear.

-That could be the body blow, couldn't it?

-I think that's going to be, yes.

In which case, they're going to need the bonus buy, so let's have a look at it!

-Jean, Richard, this is exciting, isn't it?

-It is.

You look as if you're about to receive a TV award in our ceremony.

-It is a worry.

-It's a worry.

-It's £125's worth, potentially, of worry.

Cos that's what Anita had to find you your bonus buy.

-Anita, remove the rag, please.

-For a colourful couple.

-Oh! Oh, glass.

-Oh, fantastic!

-I knew it would be glass.

-I knew it would be glass.

-Look at this!

-Yes, it's beautiful.

-Is this the Maltese?

-It is. It's Mdina glass.

Now, Michael Harris started Mdina

in Malta in 1967.

He set up this wonderful factory, which is still going today,

and is producing this lovely, 20th-century glass -

colourful, reflecting the Mediterranean climate, landscape and sea.

-Brilliant. The colours are absolutely superb.

-And this one's stunning, isn't it?

-I like that one.

-Yeah. That's my favourite. This one.

-What did you spend?

Well, when I looked at them, I couldn't make up my mind which one to buy,

-so I decided to buy the lot.

-TIM LAUGHS

-I paid £80 for them.

-OK. That's reasonable.

-That's reasonable, isn't it?

Hang on to those thoughts. You'll decide, ultimately, whether you need to go with the bonus...

You're going to have so much profit dribbling through your fingers.

We have a feeling that we will need them.

-Oh! Really?

-Mm.

-Well, let's not go there quite yet.

-No!

Let's find out from the auctioneer what he thinks about Anita's pieces of "Mm-dina" glass!

Here we go, Tony, a clutch of Maltese glass.

-How do you rate this lot?

-Well, it's Mdina, from Malta.

It's decorative, but, sadly, it's not wildly collectable.

-Bit touristy?

-I'm afraid it is.

-Yeah. OK, fine.

Well, we've got three bits. They're in perfect order. Anita Manning rates them.

And she paid the princely sum of £80.

-Oh, dear.

-Is she going to turn a profit?

-No. Our estimate's £30-£50.

Is it? That's a bit dodgy, isn't it?

On the other hand, maybe the team won't go with it, for a change.

Anyway, that's it for the Reds. Now for the Blues.

-What about Bonzo?

-He's a novel thing.

Not as attractive as Sylvac models, which always make a bit more money.

-But he has a charm of his own, so we put £10-£15.

-10-15?

-Yes.

-I thought I heard right. They paid £45.

-Oh, dear!

-That's not so swift.

Now, these are two of the ugliest Chinese export stools I think I've ever seen.

This is Hong Kong woodwork at its worst, isn't it? 1955.

I think you're being too unkind really.

They are the model... But they're used for little things and there's a lot of hand working there,

so I think I would look on them slightly more kindly than that.

£55 paid. Is there a profit in that?

It might be difficult. We put £40-£60, so we're getting near.

I'd say very generously, £40-£60!

Now the speculative item, in my view, is that lithograph.

I rather like the look of that, you know, Tony.

Yes. This is a good thing. It's very decorative.

It's the Victorian idea of what the battle should look like.

And it's this battle with the African Zulu Nation.

That fired everybody up for the film Zulu with Michael Caine and all the rest of it.

-But this is a battle just before that.

-I think it's just before Rorke's Drift.

Distinct charm about it. It shows this rectangular formation.

It's an extraordinary scene. What do you think it might bring, Tony?

-I've only put it at £40-£60.

-Oh, dear. £115 they paid.

This could be a problem, in which case, they'll need their bonus buy, so let's have a look at it!

-K, K - Kelly, Keith. Feeling OK?

-Yes, fine, thank you.

-A bit of a nervy moment this, just before the auction?

-Yes.

Anyway, don't worry, cos Mark's going to show you what he spent the £85 of leftover lolly on.

-Aren't you, Mark?

-I am, Tim.

-Yes!

-Something completely different.

-Wow!

-And, hopefully, something you weren't expecting.

-No.

-No.

I'll tell you about it. It's a cigarette case, Art Deco, so 1920s, '30s.

-Carved out of one piece of ivory.

-Wow!

Indian, with a little family crest or something like that on it

and the initials inset in gilt metal.

And the good news is that this is pre-1947 and, as such, is perfectly legal to buy and sell.

Wow! So, Mark, how much did you pay for that?

Well, I thought pretty smart, actually - 50 quid.

-£50? Wow!

-I think it's a jolly good price.

Well, that's great fun, isn't it, Mark? Cos this is native made.

Would have been made in India by a crafts person.

The elephant underneath a palm tree standing on a little mantle

will be identifiable to a state - one of the princely states in India.

-If somebody has the time to do it.

-Absolutely. And that's the fun, researching something like that.

-And that's exciting. It's in perfect condition.

-It is.

-What a nice thing.

What do you think it's going to make in auction?

-I'd love to see it making £70, £80 or more.

-Really?

-Yeah, I would. I think it deserves to make that.

-Anyway, perfect!

Meanwhile, for the viewers at home, let's find out what the auctioneer thinks about Mark's cigarette case.

Well, this is unusual, Tony, isn't it?

It's a good quality item. Made from two pieces of ivory, hand carved.

It would convert to something more attractive, like a photograph frame.

-You could make it into a frame. Do you think it dates from the 1920s, '30s?

-'30s, yes, definitely.

-You come back from the old days of the Empire.

-India, I would think, yes.

-With the elephant on the front there.

-Yeah. Good hint!

-How much then do you think?

-We've put £40-£60 on it.

Very good. Well, Mark paid £50 and he's hoping for a profit.

I think he'll probably make it, with any luck.

-I think there's a good chance there.

-Good. And if the auctioneer thinks that, there is a good chance.

Two items there. Lot 50. £100.

500.

-So, Jean, Richard, how are you feeling?

-Fantastic!

-Are you?

-Looking forward to it.

-Are you full of confidence, Jean?

-Of course.

-Is there any piece you might not have wanted to buy or are you happy with all three still?

-I'm happy.

-I'm reasonably happy with everything. We're optimistic, Tim.

-That's nice.

-Your cup is always half full.

-Oh, it's overflowing.

-Yes, that is optimistic!

Anyway, first up is the Delft blue and white plate and here it comes.

£10? 10, I have. 15 where?

15, I have. 20. 25. 30.

-Look at this!

-30 where? 30 for someone? Coming back in again?

At 25, the bid's standing then. At £25 then.

-That is plus £15.

-Not bad! Not bad!

-Plus 15 is very good.

Not bad! I'm happy with that. Fantastic!

-Now the handbag.

-There's lots of bids on the book. Starting at £30.

35 for someone? 35. 40?

40 anywhere? 40. 45.

50. 55. 60. 65.

-Come on!

-Look at this!

80. 85. 90. 95.

100. Who's 100 then? Selling at 95. Bid's in the middle of the room.

And at £95 then.

-Yes!

-1950s or not, it had bags of style.

-Eh!

And this lady chose it.

205C. Good quality claret jug there.

Who will start me at £50? 50, I have.

55 where? 55 for someone?

-Come on!

-The bidding's jumping up.

We're now jumping up to £90 on the internet. £100 then on the internet.

-Oh, come on!

-100. And 10. 120.

-Yes!

-130. 140.

150. 160.

-This is ridiculous!

-No, it's not.

160. 170. 180.

-180, internet?

-I love the internet!

-Selling at £170 then.

-£170...

-Well done!

..is amazing.

Which is another £45. So you are plus £115.

-Are you going with the bonus buy or not?

-I think we'll stick.

-We'll stick.

-115 is a great profit. It could be a winning score.

-Yeah.

-We hope so.

We have a decision. We're not going with the bonus buy, but we're going to sell them anyway. Here they come.

Very decorative items. Several commission bids. Starting at £50.

55 where? 50, I have. 55 anywhere?

55. 60. 60 for someone? It's at 55. Bid's in the middle of the room.

Are we all done at £55 then? Bid's with the lady.

-Ah!

-We made the right decision.

Minus £25, actually. Would have been minus 25.

But, as it is, you're square. You are plus 115.

-Just don't say a word to the Blues.

-Mum's the word.

-No point in spoiling their day.

-No. No.

-No.

-So, Kelly, Keith, do you know how the Reds got on?

-No.

-No idea?

Thank goodness for that. We don't want you to know either.

First up is the Bourne Pottery Bonzo dog and here it comes.

£10. Charming little character. 10, I have.

15 where? 15?

15, I have. 20. 25.

30. 35. 40. 45.

50. 55. 60. 65.

Look at that, Kelly.

65? I have a bid of 60 in the room.

And at £60 then. The bid's in the room at £60.

-Yes!

-Plus 15. You were absolutely right, you two.

Well done. Just a great effort, team. Now the hardwood foot stools.

We have a bid at £35. 40 where? For two stools.

£40?

-Can't beat a stool.

-Deathly hush out there.

35, I have. 40 anywhere? Selling at 35 then. Opening, maiden bid then.

-No further bid then?

-Can't bear this!

-Selling at 35 then.

Minus £20, which means, overall, you're minus £5.

Now, Abu Klea. 1885.

£50? A battle scene. 50, I have.

55 where? 55.

60. 65. 70. 75.

80. 85.

85 at the front? 85 for someone?

Selling at £80. A bid at the back of the room there.

Are we all done at £80. Bid's at the back of the room then.

-Oh!

-Oh!

-£80. It's 20. That's minus 35.

You were minus five. You're minus 40, kids.

Minus 40. Not right though, is it?

Somehow one felt that the battle scene might have made a bit more.

-So what about the fag case?

-Yeah.

-We know what we're doing with that.

-Definitely.

-Definitely?

-Without a doubt.

OK, were trusting Mark. Here comes the cigarette case.

We have a bid of £50. 55 where? Who's 55?

55, I have. 60. 65. 70.

-Yes!

-75. 80. 85. 85 for someone?

-Go on!

It's at £80. Bid's on my left. All done at £80? No further bid?

-Oh, come on!

-Oh!

£80 is a £30 profit, which is absolutely stellar, Mark!

-Well done!

-Well done, Mark. Thank you.

-Thank you.

Not quite enough to claw back the losses, which means you are minus £10.

-That's very bad luck.

-That's not bad.

Minus £10 could be a winning score. Say not a word to the Reds. All will be revealed in a moment.

Selling at 130 then.

109, thank you.

-Was that good, or was it good? It was good, yes?

-Brilliant.

-It was good.

-Have you been chatting, Kelly, Keith?

-No.

-You've been not talking across the boundary here.

-No.

-Sadly, today, the bad news sits with the Blues.

-Oh!

-Oh!

With a minus score. You got your £30 profit, Mark, out of the nice cigarette case,

-but it wasn't enough.

-Not quite.

The Bonzo dog, which everybody was so rude about, did brilliantly for you.

But you were dragged back by that print, weren't you? That really was the killer item.

-Still, never know, another time, you might be luckier.

-Yep.

-You had a nice time, Kelly?

-Very.

-Very, very, very nice to meet you.

-And you.

-It's been great having you on the show.

But the victors today are the Reds,

-who are going to go home with £115!

-Gosh!

You've each made a profit on each of your items, which is absolutely stellar.

Which means you are entitled to become members

-of the ancient and venerable Order of the Golden Gavellers.

-Fantastic!

You've made £115 to take home, which is a rare occasion.

-So I congratulate you.

-Thank you.

-Thank you so much.

-Very, very nice to see you.

-In fact, join us soon for some more bargain hunting, yes?

-YES!

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