Celebrity Antiques Road Trip

[MUSIC PLAYING] NARRATOR: The nation's favorite celebrities-- I'm a celebrity.

Hi.

Oh, that's excellent.

NARRATOR: --paired up with an expert-- We're a very good team, you and me.

NARRATOR: --and a classic car.

Their mission, to scour Britain for antiques.

I have no idea what it is.

Oh, I love it.

NARRATOR: The aim, to make the biggest profit at auction.

Yes!

NARRATOR: But it's no easy ride.

[GASPS] There's no accounting for taste.

NARRATOR: Who will find a hidden gem?

Who will take the biggest risks?

Will anybody follow expert advice?

I think I'm a better bargainer than you.

NARRATOR: There will be worthy winners and valiant losers.

- Are you happy?

- Yes.

- Promise?

- Exactly.

NARRATOR: Time to put your pedal to the metal.

This is Celebrity Antiques Road Trip.

[THEME MUSIC] Yeah.

[MUSIC PLAYING] Now, here's some breaking news.

We're on a celebrity road trip with two of our favorite newscasters.

Michael Buerk and Natasha Kaplinsky.

I'm going to really, really nail you.

I'm going to compete with you, and I'm going to absolutely floor you-- - You're so competitive.

- --with skill.

Yes, I am.

- Well, I'm sure-- You'll see --that's probably right.

NARRATOR: Natasha has been reading the national news for over a decade.

And she made "Strictly Come Dancing" history when she won the first series in 2004.

Veteran newshand, Michael joined the BBC as a cub reporter in the early 1970s from his famous reports on the Ethiopian famine through to TV shows like 9-9-9.

And he's known for bringing journalistic integrity to his broadcasts.

On this rather soggy road trip, Natasha and Michael are driving a 1971 Volvo P800.

But what do our celebrities know about antiques?

I really haven't got a first clue so I'm going to have to rely on my expert for absolutely everything.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

I hope he's good.

I'm sure he is.

Yeah.

Well, I hope mine's better.

[LAUGHING] NARRATOR: I think you'll find your two experts are entirely equal in skill and professionalism.

Well, thank you very much, Thomas.

What do you mean, thank you?

Bringing this weather with you.

Well, it's nothing to do with me.

Yes, I'm blaming you entirely.

NARRATOR: It's auctioneer's Thomas Plant and Mark Stacey.

They're in a 1961 MG Midget convertible.

Wisely, they've got the roof up today.

This road trip starts in the depths of East Sussex.

Our teams will take routes East to Hastings before the trek North to the outskirts of London towards an auction in Twickenham.

I think you've got an unfair advantage actually.

Tell me.

Well, this is your neck of the woods.

This is my hood.

Yeah.

This is my hood.

Unless they think you're the lady of the manor and therefore, you'll have to pay more.

Oh, right.

OK.

I can see-- - What do you think?

--where you're going with that.

Here we are.

That's a lovely car, isn't it?

- It's gorgeous.

- No, no.

You're going to get splashed.

Now why aren't we in this?

Well, I think I'll be in that.

With Natasha, it's just sort of fitting, isn't it?

No.

I'll help Natasha.

Oh.

What a gem.

Hello.

- Good morning.

- How are you?

I'm Natasha.

Lovely to meet you.

Are you all right?

- Thomas.

Yes, very good.

We survived the car.

NARRATOR: Looks like everyone has their eye on the saintly Volvo, and news just in, Natasha will team up with Thomas and Michael will partner with Mark for this road trip.

So this is where the competition starts?

Yeah.

MICHAEL: I can see the way this is going to go, Natasha.

Good luck.

NARRATOR: Round one goes to the lady of the manor.

[LAUGHTER] Michael and Mark will have to make do with the leaky roof in the MG Midget while Natasha sets off with Thomas in the Volvo.

Their first stop in East Sussex is Hailsham.

The town boasts a proud history in making quality rope.

It supplied the British Navy in the 18th century at a time when the empire depended on sale power.

And rope making continues here today.

Oh.

No rain.

Oh, I know.

NARRATOR: Natasha and Thomas's first stop is Antiques and All Sorts.

Hello.

NARRATOR: The owner is Mick.

That's not him.

- Mick, I'm Thomas.

- Hello.

And I'm Natasha.

Hi.

Gosh.

Where do we start?

NARRATOR: Good question.

Mick's got quite an assortment so they'll have to be eagle-eyed.

It's broken at the end.

I'm not making a rude gesture at you yet.

THOMAS: No weird gestures?

How much is this, Mick?

MICK: 100 pound.

100 pounds?

NATASHA: No, no, no.

But that's just a starting price.

He doesn't mean that.

THOMAS: Yeah, he doesn't.

Right, let's move on and have a look.

There is something I've seen.

Do you like history?

NATASHA: Of course.

You can imagine these on somebody's dressing table as we speak.

Oh, yeah.

Little atomizers.

Silver as well, with a cut glass body for one's perfume.

And there's another one here.

They're quite fashionable because of the whole interest we have in everything 1920s.

What have these got to be?

MICK: About 60 pound each.

60 pounds?

You couldn't do 60 pounds for the two?

Of course, he could.

That one looks a bit rusty.

THOMAS: That is rusty.

This is why I'm trying to get that one for nothing.

MICK: You've got to think of the happiness it would bring to the person it was being gifted to as well.

NATASHA: You've got to think of the happiness you would give us by reducing the price.

Well, if it would be worth it to see you smile, why not?

Oh.

Let's see.

NARRATOR: Oh, Natasha knows how to play this game.

Let's just leave those up there for now, we can think about those.

NATASHA: OK, let's think about this.

I'm going to go with your advice.

Well, no.

Anything else in the cabinet-- You're the expert for a reason.

Well, also I'd like you to pick out the odd item which excites you.

NATASHA: Yeah.

THOMAS: That's pretty.

NATASHA: That is pretty.

THOMAS: That is pretty, isn't it?

This is a First World War Christmas box, Christmas 1914.

Oh, I think that's wonderful.

NARRATOR: In 1914, Princess Mary set up the Sailors and Soldiers Christmas Fund to provide the thousands of British soldiers who were serving overseas with a gift box on Christmas Day.

They all contained a picture of the princess and luxuries such as a little chocolate, tobacco and a pencil.

There's no ticket price so how much, Mick?

I'd probably do that for 35.

- 35?

- Yeah.

OK, thank you very much.

We could think about that.

That would make a lovely Christmas present.

I mean, if I'd known about that I would have been searching for them for Christmas, you know?

It's gorgeous.

Yeah.

How about if I did all three items for 100 pound, then?

And our overall budget is 400, isn't it?

100 pounds is a fair offer.

I think so.

It's very fair.

And you're a very fair man.

I am a fair man.

But I'm not.

And you're a lovely lady.

I'm not a fair lady, not in this instance.

However, I was thinking-- two figures I'd prefer.

200.

No, no, no.

I'm a little slow, you see.

No, no.

I'd prefer-- I was thinking, 75 pounds.

Are you?

I was.

And I mentioned [INAUDIBLE].

He doesn't keep odd content very long, does he?

But, I will.

I think that's being very generous.

I think we should try-- I think this is a very kind man.

You want to go more?

Yeah.

I think you've got a very kind heart.

Thank you.

And I think that you really want to help us.

Let me say, you're a lady of good taste and discretion.

I am and I know that you want to help us.

I certainly do.

Yeah.

So I think that you're going to go lower than that for us.

I'll do 70 pounds.

There we are.

How about that?

70 pounds.

And that's it.

That's it.

Final offer?

Set in stone.

What do you want to do, Natasha?

I think we should have a little bit of a further chat.

Set in stone, I'm not sure.

Oh my-- you are brilliant, aren't you?

Yeah, I know because I think there's a little bit-- I don't think you're going to be a winner.

--more room for manoeuvre.

Do you not?

Really?

NARRATOR: My money's on Natasha, Mick.

65, you've got a deal.

Go on, 65 pounds.

Oh, it was just a smile from a pretty girl.

[LAUGHTER] You're a good man.

I'm very lucky.

Thank you very much.

Well, that's it.

Two items down.

That's brilliant.

Thank you very much, indeed.

NARRATOR: Natasha and Thomas leave their first shop with the atomizers for 50 pounds and the First World War Christmas Box for 15 pounds.

Natasha is shaping up to be quite a competitor so Michael's got a real challenge on his hands.

MARK: How'd you think they're getting on, do you think?

Well, I have a horrible feeling they might be getting on quite well because, you know, Natasha has only got to blink at the owner of an antique shop.

MARK: But I have a feeling she will smile sweetly and people will melt.

Can you try and do that?

Do you think that'll work?

It hasn't worked in 68 years, so I'm not quite sure how it's going to start working now.

NARRATOR: The chaps are making their way across East Sussex to Polegate.

Just two miles outside the town is the mysterious long man of Wilmington.

Experts remain baffled as to why or when the 70 meter long man appeared in the hill.

Here's hoping our chaps are less stumped in Summers Antiques.

MICHAEL: The trick to this is not what I like, it's what they'll like and what they'll pay for it.

I mean, that is the trick.

So it doesn't have to be antique.

It could be just something that's very interesting.

Right.

With a story?

With a story.

That's always [INAUDIBLE].

NARRATOR: Journalist Michael loves a story, though.

This should be easy.

What about the swords?

Well, they're a bit tricky those, aren't they?

Are they?

MICHAEL: What about a pipe?

It's not a great.

MICHAEL: You don't think it'll sell?

MARK: No, it's not a great auction.

Oh, what about the boots?

No, they're wrong size.

This is more my speed.

It's better if you can get a pair of decanters.

Yeah, yeah.

NARRATOR: Cranky Mark.

Your celebrity trying hard here.

I don't think we would have much luck here, to be honest.

NARRATOR: Come on, Mark, suggest something.

MARK: What is the drawing up there?

Do you like it?

What would the appeal be about that?

Well, I just think-- It's just a ruddy garden gnome.

But he makes me smile.

I think we should look at it, Michael.

All right, all right.

NARRATOR: He's the expert.

MARK: I mean, it looks like a sort of paint and ink drawing.

But don't you think it's quite quirky?

[MUSIC PLAYING] MICHAEL: I'm beginning to have my doubts about you.

Oh really?

Oh dear.

I do wish you'd gone with Thomas.

NARRATOR: I don't blame you.

The gnome is accompanied by a frog, a swallow and a bucket of gold and a ticket price of 60 pounds.

Shop owner, Will steps in.

Is it a drawing or a print, Will?

WILL: I think it's a drawing.

NARRATOR: Well, if it is an original drawing it's bound to be worth much more than a later print.

That's obvious, innit?

MARK: You say it's not for us?

You don't like it?

I'm not mad on it.

OK. - Give it a go.

- Hey?

- Give it a go.

- No.

Why not?

Well, it's 60 quid.

You can make me an offer.

I think it might be a print.

Have you got an eyeglass?

Yes.

NARRATOR: Mark's keen for a closer inspection.

Oh, yes.

Well, I'm not convinced.

But Michael, absolutely.

Honestly.

I mean this is not a news flash to anyone.

Michael absolutely hates it.

OK. Yeah, but we're going to make you a very cheeky offer.

WILL: How low?

Tenner.

Can't do a tenner.

Good.

Can't do a tenner.

WILL: What about 20 pounds?

That's the lowest we can do.

MICHAEL: Tell you what, I'll suspend all my judgment and all my taste, such as it is, and offer you 15.

WILL: I think this picture would do really well, so I'm going to take your 15 pounds and I think you'll have a good day with this picture.

MARK: Shake his hand.

Well done, Michael.

Well done, Michael, OK?

NARRATOR: The bad news for Michael is that, despite suggesting almost every item in the shop, he leaves with the only thing he didn't really want.

The good news is that the gnome came with a 45 pound discount costing just 15 pounds.

Our first purchase, Micheal.

It's a mistake.

It's a mistake.

Ye of little faith.

NARRATOR: While Michael and Mark agree to disagree, Thomas and Natasha are enjoying the East Sussex countryside.

NATASHA: I don't know, I just love being out of London these days.

It's a different life.

What are you going to do with your farm you're living on?

Well, embracing the country lifestyle.

We've got chickens.

We've really gone for it with alpacas.

THOMAS: Alpacas?

I don't know why.

I just like the look of them.

And my little fantasy is that I'm going to get their wool spun and then I'm going to sit there and knit in all my spare time.

And then everyone's going to have homemade Christmas presents.

I think that's marvelous.

NARRATOR: Natasha's love of woolly alpacas means she'll be right at home at her next stop.

Because at East Dean, deep in the South Downs National Park, is a unique farm.

THOMAS: Natasha, look.

NATASHA: Here we are.

THOMAS: Seven Sisters Sheep Centre.

NATASHA: Say that in a hurry.

THOMAS: I can't.

I'd say a whole manner of things.

How'd you get out of one of these things elegantly?

Well, I think-- How'd the Duchess of Cambridge do it?

Not like that, probably.

[LAUGHING] NARRATOR: Seven Sisters Sheep Center is home to the world's largest private collection of sheep.

Saving rare breeds from extinction has become a life's work for farm owner, Terry Wigmore.

- Hello.

- Hi.

NARRATOR: With wellies on, it's time to hear how the history of our country can be told through Terry's assortment of sheep.

Thank you for having us here.

It's very exciting.

How many have you got?

TERRY: Well, altogether with lambs about 600 at the moment.

Have you?

Yeah.

But I've got 57 different breeds, British breeds.

NATASHA: Can we have a look at some of them?

Yes, yes.

Come through and see some more.

Great.

NARRATOR: Terry's collection is a living museum.

It tells the story of how wool triggered one of the most important events in British history.

Unique British breeds of sheep are responsible for how the country became one of the world's most wealthy and powerful nations.

And it started 10,000 years ago with little brown sheep called the Soay.

Prehistoric man collected the Soay's wool to make basic clothing.

These actually melt their wool.

So this is how they first started.

They obviously picked it up off the floor and then when they got more into it, they would gather them all up and then they would pull the wool out.

They realized if they had white wool they could dye it different colors.

So they started selectively just keeping white sheep.

So this is why you see mainly white sheep around.

The white wool is more value.

NARRATOR: From Roman times, wool from English bred sheep was highly valued abroad.

It was tough with long fibers making it easier to spin.

Wool continued to be a much valued commodity, and the government did all it could to support the industry passing a law in 1571 requiring every male aged 6 and above, who was not a gentleman, to wear an English woolen cap.

How marvelous.

But the problem was that it was more like a cottage industry.

They were just one person with a spinning wool.

So they had to sort of try and think how much they could do it faster because they wanted more and more cloth.

This is how the Industrial Revolution started.

NARRATOR: The Industrial Revolution began around 1750.

The successful mechanization of the woolen industry transformed Britain and the face of the world.

Wool became the white gold, and sheep farming became big business.

Jumpers, carpets, felt, everything you can think of we have a breed in Britain that will supply the wool for it.

NARRATOR: But this period of prosperity was not to last.

Cotton from the far east, then the innervation of man-made fibers made the manufacture of cloth easier and cheaper than wool.

And so in the late 18th century, sheep breeding began to focus on meat rather than wool quality.

Today, wool is removed with electric clippers but the principle is the same as it was 2000 years ago.

Steady.

Ooh, make mine a number two.

We start off down the chest and tummy, find our way in down there.

And is this quite a frightening experience for her?

Or is she completely fine with it?

Look at her.

Looks quite relaxed.

Quite relaxed.

TERRY: Yeah, they're not overly keen on it but they don't mind.

We do do a bikini line as well.

NATASHA: Well, I'm glad you're doing that bit rather than me.

TERRY: Would you like to have a little go?

OK.

The flat?

Yeah.

THOMAS: Go on, Natasha.

You're doing a job.

TERRY: Follow the body around.

NATASHA: See, I'm a proper farmer at heart.

THOMAS: Natural.

NARRATOR: In the early 19th century, it's estimated a sheep's fleece would be worth over 40 pounds in today's money, somewhat more than what Terry can get.

Well, unfortunately If I told you that I'll get 1 pound 20 for it-- You're joking.

No, that's all we get.

It's too expensive to wash in Britain.

So 90% our wool goes by boat to China, is washed and comes back again.

Wow.

It's cheaper than washing it here.

NARRATOR: For modern British farmers, breeding sheep for wool is no longer economically viable.

But thanks to Terry and his menagerie, the legacy of our woolly friends' heyday lives on.

It shows how important the sheep have been though, doesn't it, in our past?

It has been brilliant.

Thank you so much.

We've learnt so much.

- OK.

Thank you very much.

NARRATOR: But it's not goodbye just yet.

Natasha's fallen in love.

Her alpacas will soon have some new friends.

Wag your tail if you'd like to come and live with me.

NARRATOR: Mine's wagging.

Mine's wagging.

NATASHA: It really is going.

Can you see?

We do have to buy some antiques.

We can't just buy animals.

I'd slightly forgotten about the antiques.

[LAUGHTER] NARRATOR: So there's no pulling the wool over Thomas's eyes.

Meanwhile, back on the road, Michael's revealing how he moved from newspapers onto television.

MICHAEL: BBC just seemed kind of posture than being a newspaper reporter.

But you've covered some amazing stories.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

When you're covering something, for example, like the famine, I mean does it affect you?

I mean, when you're reporting this, do you feel helpless?

Or is it purely just-- Well, you'd have to be-- Dispassionate.

Oh God, you'd have to-- no, you'd have to be something less than human if you didn't have a human reaction to it.

And my sons were fairly young at the time.

They were about 10 or 11, I suppose.

They're twins.

And when you're seeing children of that age suffering in that kind of way, there are all sorts of routes into your own emotions.

NARRATOR: Michael and are on their way to picturesque Sedlescombe.

In the 18th century the village had a reputation for producing the best gunpowder in Europe.

A typical Sussex village, this place was even awarded Village of the Year in 2009.

Well, this is it.

Yeah.

NARRATOR: After buying the gnome, Michael and Mark have 385 pounds left to spend.

Here we go again.

NARRATOR: Here's hoping these two will agree on something they both like in Bridge Garage Antique Centre.

MARK: Gosh, there's lots to see, isn't it.

But you see, my eyes glaze over after a while.

Yeah.

Because you're just trying to find that one thing that sort of leaps out at you.

Yeah, no exactly.

Isn't it?

And it's not at the moment.

NARRATOR: 13 dealers trade from this one shop offering an eclectic mix of antiques and collectibles.

Old handbags?

They've got to be by the right designer.

MICHAEL: Chanel.

It isn't.

NARRATOR: The chaps decide to divide and rule.

And while Mark takes one end of the shop, Michael's drawn to something he rather likes.

Dealer, Paul though is on hand to help.

Oh, 240.

Why is it worth so much money?

PAUL: Well, it's WMF.

It's quite delectable.

What does WMF stand for?

It's German.

I don't know what its-- I don't speak German.

All right, all right, right.

PAUL: Mark will tell you.

NARRATOR: Mark, your celebrity needs you.

It stands for-- and I know my pronunciation will be wrong, but it's something like, [SPEAKING GERMAN] - [SPEAKING GERMAN] - Yes.

MICHAEL: My family comes from there.

MARK: No.

- Yeah.

Well, they are very famous.

Are they?

The art nouveau period at WMF.

In fact, my family were clock makers.

And there is a Buerk museum still in Schwenningen and [INAUDIBLE].

There's quite a lot of Buerks still left in [INAUDIBLE].. You're going into the sand there, aren't you?

I couldn't resist.

I know you couldn't.

I'm sorry.

I couldn't resist that one, Micheal.

[LAUGHING] Anyway, suffice it to say one has a link with [INAUDIBLE].

NARRATOR: This copper and brass urn is a great example of secessionist metalwork.

But it does have a ticket price of 240 pounds.

Do you like it?

I like it more than the gnome.

NARRATOR: I agree.

MARK: I love the collection.

Yes, well [INAUDIBLE].

The fact that we have turned up in a village that neither of us have ever been to before, and we found this very personal.

MICHAEL: Yeah, there's a connection there.

NARRATOR: The W.M.F belongs to another dealer.

Paul's gone to give him a call.

Hang on, my friend.

Barry.

Barry.

Hello, Barry.

How are you?

We've spotted your W.M.F urn on stand.

What's the very best price you can do for us?

Do you think we could squeeze you to 150?

That's wonderful.

Thank you so much for your help.

Goodbye then.

NARRATOR: Great teamwork.

A super spot from Michael and some nice negotiating from Mark.

We've got our second item, Michael.

I know.

And we've spent a bit of money.

I can see the relief in your face.

Oh.

I need a darkened room.

NARRATOR: Hey, it's great you're both getting on now.

Mark's found something he likes, and a dealer called Mary.

Mary, why is that pot 98 pounds?

Is it yours?

MARY: It is.

You're having a bit of a laugh there, aren't you?

Can I have a quick look at that?

NARRATOR: Mark's not sure this Chinese bowl warrants the 98 pound ticket price.

MARK: I don't think it's terribly old, isn't it?

But it has got-- it's got a certain look about it, hasn't it?

NARRATOR: But what will Michael make of it?

Gosh, it's heavier than I would have thought.

Well, actually it should feel heavier.

But Mary has taken the price off it.

[LAUGHING] But I think Mary is open to a cheeky offer.

Go on, then.

Be as cheeky as you like.

Now, there's an invitation.

Can we say 30?

Do you know-- We could shake hands on 25.

Oh.

Oh!

You're worse than him.

No, I'm not.

I'm nothing like him.

I'm covering my face.

Go on, then.

Oh!

I think she deserves a hug after that.

Oh, I think a bit more than-- [KISSING] That'll be 5 pounds, please.

[LAUGHTER] I'm a celebrity.

[INAUDIBLE] That's 10 pounds.

NARRATOR: 25 pounds.

That's a quarter of the ticket price.

But Mary did get a kiss, or two.

Michael's leaving his second shop with the Chinese bronze bowl and the WMF copper and brass urn bought for 150 pounds.

But will it be an earner?

Thank you, Mary.

You've been so kind.

Another 10 pounds.

I've never seen anybody get so many kisses that she's had this afternoon.

I'll take this.

NARRATOR: It's been a busy day and tomorrow promises to be the same.

So for now, get some rest teams.

Nighty night.

It's day two.

Thomas and Mark have lowered the MG's roof and are enjoying the bracing sea air.

Sunny Hastings.

[INAUDIBLE SINGING] like to be beside the seaside.

NARRATOR: Their singing isn't up to much, but what impression did our experts make yesterday?

NATASHA: Well, Thomas is brilliant.

I mean, he just knows so much about everything.

And actually, the shop became much more interesting.

I've been there with him.

What about you?

Well, I had a bit of a disagreement with Mark over one thing we ended up buying.

What, you didn't want to buy it but he thought it was-- I didn't want to buy it.

I didn't want to have anything to do with it at all.

Oh no, what is it?

I can't tell you that.

Not at this stage.

How intriguing.

You'll see soon enough.

Oh, well I can't wait.

Oh, I can.

NARRATOR: Yesterday, Natasha made big news with her tough negotiating skills picking up two cut class atomizers and some First World War memorabilia all for 65 pounds, leaving her and Thomas with 335 pounds left to spend today.

I'm not making a rude gesture at you yet.

NARRATOR: Michael monopolized on his celebrity status too.

That'll be 5 pounds, please.

Oh.

[LAUGHTER] NARRATOR: He spent 190 pounds on a brass and copper vase, a bronze Chinese bowl and a pen and ink drawing of a gnome.

Michael and Mark have 210 pounds left to spend today.

Well, it doesn't sound that good that car.

MARK: It doesn't sound that good.

It doesn't.

THOMAS: Oh no, it's died.

[LAUGHING] MARK: But they got here.

That's the main thing.

Let's go and help.

We made it.

MARK: You made it.

NATASHA: I think we've run out of petrol.

Hello.

Good morning.

How are you?

- Good morning.

Mark, how are you?

I'm loving the outfit.

I said I'd make an effort for you.

I'm seriously under-dressed.

Oh, don't be so silly.

We've lost on the trouser space.

NATASHA: Look at this.

He's rocking the pink look very well.

A vision of loveliness if I may say so.

[INTERPOSING VOICES] MARK: He's trying to put us off our stroke.

Oh, please.

Honestly, can't a man just-- No, you look wonderful, you really do.

We're not going to stand out at all.

No, we're not.

We're just going to slip in and slip out, and no one's going to notice.

MARK: You're so diplomatic.

But I've got to be diplomatic because we've got to head this way.

Have a good shopping day.

Enjoy your day and we'll see you later on.

You could always auction the trousers.

No, no.

Natasha, let's go in the open top.

NARRATOR: Both teams have made their way to the town of Hastings on the East Sussex coast.

Hastings claims fame through its connection with the Norman conquest in 1066.

But there's more to the town than just a battle.

Today, it's the perfect place for boat lovers.

MARK: Do you like boats?

No, not really.

NARRATOR: Oh no, [INAUDIBLE].

With 335 pounds left to spend, Natasha and Thomas are visiting Hastings Antiques Warehouse.

Right, Natasha.

OK. We want the wow-factor.

We do want the wow-factor.

NARRATOR: Here, there are three floors of goodies to tempt them.

Natasha, this is quite fun.

So it's a bureau, but it's a biscuit or a chocolate tin from the Victorian period.

Victory Garment Chocolate Factory, Nelson Lancashire.

And then there, you've got the factory.

That lovely, no love.

NARRATOR: Oh.

Lacks the wow-factor.

But undeterred, Thomas strides on.

Natasha though, is struggling to keep up.

Thomas, can I tell you?

This is why I get scared in antique shops.

Why?

Well, because I don't know what I'm looking for and I just feel a bit overwhelmed by it all.

THOMAS: It is quite overwhelming, isn't it?

Well, that's why I'm here.

Well, come on.

Do your stuff.

Well, I'm looking.

Gosh.

NARRATOR: Yes, Thomas.

Come on, boy.

Can't happen immediately.

You've got to find the objects.

They're not going to jump out at you.

We'll find something, I promise.

NARRATOR: Now you need to get your juices going.

What have you found?

Anything?

There's the large ship lights in the front, which are quite decorative.

OK. NARRATOR: Told you.

NATASHA: Now let's go and look outside then.

NARRATOR: Thomas has spotted a pair of large ship's lights in the window.

THOMAS: Those could be a possibility.

Good decorative items, London decorator, polished up.

NATASHA: And where would they put them?

THOMAS: Well, in somebody's living room.

Oh, really?

Yeah, that light lit up.

Be rather magical really.

NATASHA: Bit of a risk.

THOMAS: It is a big risk.

NATASHA: A big risk.

THOMAS: Everything is a risk.

NARRATOR: There's no ticket price.

Hopefully dealer, David can shine a little more light on the two lamps.

David, talk to us about the lights in the window.

Who owns those?

DAVID: I own those.

THOMAS: You do?

DAVID: Yeah.

And I bought them well, so I can do the pair for 250 which is 125 each.

There's no way you're going to get them anywhere else cheaper than that.

But we're on a really tight budget, that's our problem.

But I can't lose money so I'm giving them to you at a margin.

NATASHA: Could it be a small margin?

Very narrow.

It is very small as it is.

An even smaller margin?

THOMAS: I like having Natasha with me.

DAVID: She's hard, isn't she.

NATASHA: Got no shame.

She's hard.

THOMAS: No shame.

Got piercing eyes as well.

THOMAS: Yes, yes.

I'm turning to jelly.

THOMAS: Yes, David.

NATASHA: I'm not taking my eyes off you.

The best I can do, 220.

THOMAS: It's quite tight, but they're quite good value.

OK, 210.

I'm feeling charitable.

THOMAS: Are you?

You're feeling generous?

And that is it.

That is it.

That's fine.

I think-- You're a man.

You're a star.

- I'm going to give you a kiss.

Oh, you're going to get a kiss?

I'm going to give you a kiss.

Look at that.

Thank you very much.

That's OK. Don't come back in a hurry.

[LAUGHTER] NARRATOR: Natasha's charm has secured a great deal on two super ships lanterns.

But spending 210 pounds on one item is a risky strategy.

Love it.

Bye-bye.

Thank you very much.

NARRATOR: Natasha leaves with her spirits lifted.

She has another lot for auction, and 125 pounds left to spend.

Michael and Mark, meanwhile have made the short walk to the old town quarter of Hastings.

Like many small British fishing ports, Hastings' history is a story of survival.

Whilst many towns became seaside resorts, generations of families in Hastings continue the fishing tradition.

MICHAEL: Well, what are these things about, these kind of sawn off boats?

Well, I'm sure we're going to find out shortly, aren't we?

NARRATOR: For thousands of years, fishermen have worked from Hastings beach.

Today, Michael and Mark are meeting museum curator, Peter Broten to hear how local men risked their lives as they set out to sea to fish.

Nice to meet you, Peter.

NARRATOR: And their first stop is the Fisherman's Museum which houses a unique collection of local fishing heritage and a rather large exhibit.

Oh wow.

This is the lugger, is it?

PETER: This is the lugger.

MICHAEL: It's a big lugger.

Can we go up?

PETER: Yes, of course.

NARRATOR: Luggers were fishing boats built exclusively in Hastings in the late 19th century.

They were one of the first large fishing vessels to be fitted with decks, revolutionary for the time.

Elsewhere in the country, many smaller boats were being used.

But when a fierce storm in 1848 cost 107 fishermen their lives, the government suggested boats like luggers be used nationwide.

Large, decked boats were soon at sea all around the coast and the restored lugger in Hastings is an example of Victorian cutting-edge technology.

But even on a lugger, working at sea wasn't without risk.

The first thing that strikes me is how unsafe it feels.

It wouldn't take much to tip you over the side, wouldn't it.

Well no, it wouldn't.

NARRATOR: The precariously low sides of the boat served a practical purpose.

They didn't want to haul the net any further than they needed to.

MICHAEL: The sides of the ship are so dangerously low because they've got to pull a heavy net over them.

That's basically the line?

NARRATOR: What a life.

And this is while the boat is going like this.

I mean you feel dangerously exposed up here just as a museum.

NARRATOR: Luggers also had to be designed to allow for a beach launch as Hastings never had a harbor.

PETER: The last real attempt to build a harbour started in about 1896.

But it never got finished.

They ran out of money.

NARRATOR: For thousands of years, the fishermen of Hastings would launch their boat by manpower.

You imagine pushing one of these boats into the water.

MICHAEL: It's a huge, heavy-- because I've noticed-- I'm a bit of a boatie myself-- that they've got the keel and then they've got-- PETER: Two, what are known as bilge keels.

MICHAEL: Yeah.

And the idea of the bilge keels is you can put it on the beach and it doesn't fall over.

PETER: Exactly.

God, it's a hard trade, isn't it?

It is a hard trade.

I Imagine they must have dabbled in smuggling as well.

Everybody on the South Coast did, didn't they?

More than dabbled, I think Michael, more than dabbled.

NARRATOR: In the late 18th century, illegal trade was rife across Europe.

Contraband was regularly smuggled across the channel.

PETER: Smuggling at one time was probably the biggest industry in the country.

They probably made more money out of smuggling than they did out of fishing.

PETER: Rewards were huge.

Huge.

NARRATOR: But fishermen who tried their hand at smuggling risked losing their livelihood if caught.

Well, the punishment for the fishermen was that they'd have their boat cut in two.

NARRATOR: The two halves would be put to use as somewhere to store nets and fishing gear.

The museum has replicas on show.

By the 1840s, a free-trade policy meant large-scale smuggling was finished.

At the same time, fishermen faced a challenge to their way of life with the arrival of the railway and a new breed of Hastings resident.

MARK: But when Hastings was being gentrified, surely these people who were coming down and building their grand houses at the time looked rather down on these people?

Indeed, they did.

It was felt that the fishing community were in need of more spiritual and modern moral guidance.

NARRATOR: So in the 1850s, a church was built just for the fishing community.

And that very church is now the museum, home to the last remaining lugger.

It's rather fun, isn't it, the idea that for so long the fishermen were looked down on by the Gentry in Hastings.

And now, what, this must be the main tourist attraction in Hastings?

It's why people come here.

PETER: Very much so.

It's the jewel in Hastings' crown.

PETER: Absolutely.

NARRATOR: Today, around 25 fishing crews still work from the same spot as their ancestors making it the largest beach launched fishing fleet in Britain.

But one old sea dog has left life on the waves to cook the daily catch.

Let me introduce you to Tush and Pat-- Hello.

--who do very famous fisherman's rolls.

How do you do, sir?

MICHAEL: And what fish are you using there?

PETER: Whatever they bring in.

Today we've got plaice and lemon soles.

MICHAEL: Oh, lovely.

PETER: There we go.

There we are.

Thank you very much, indeed.

PETER: Now, I always tell people there's no bones.

If you get a bone, I'll give you a fiver.

Wow.

I think I found a bone.

Oh, good!

What a shame.

NARRATOR: Meanwhile, Thomas and Natasha have made their way across town and are taking their remaining 125 pounds to The Clockwork Crow, home to a delightful dealer named Lisa.

Hello, Lisa.

- Hello.

- Hello.

- I'm Natasha.

- Welcome.

- Thank you, very much.

Lisa.

- What a dinky shop.

- Thomas.

Hello, Thomas.

Nice to meet you.

It's amazing.

But it is, isn't it?

Very cute.

It is absolutely fabulous.

Now is that what I think it is?

Here.

Is it full?

LISA: No, it's not unfortunately.

Ah.

Well, it's nice though, isn't it?

LISA: Hm, it's lovely.

So this is a picnic hamper basket.

Isn't that absolutely delightful?

Look that lovely-- Lovely.

Yeah, oh, I think we found something.

Haven't we?

Isn't that great in there?

Do you know how difficult it is to get picnic hampers?

I've tried and tried-- - Oh really.

- Yeah.

– Well-- NATASHA: Good spot.

THOMAS: Well, I think that's quite a nice thing, really.

NATASHA: It's very kind of, let's go down to the park and pose with a nice picnic hamper.

Don't you think?

THOMAS: Bottle of wine.

Yeah.

Could be a bit pretentious.

It is quite pretentious, yes.

It's quite affected.

NATASHA: Perfect for us.

Perfect.

NARRATOR: These two are even thinking alike now.

It's 40 pounds.

It's 40 pounds.

How long have you had this for?

Not very long at all.

THOMAS: Oh really?

No.

NARRATOR: She would say that, wouldn't she?

Anyway, that one's a possible.

But as Lisa's only been open for seven months, there are plenty of market fresh goodies here.

So what's your favorite item in the shop, then?

I really like, very simple, but this weird little first aid box.

I just noticed that actually.

LISA: I think it's very sweet.

And I love the color and the writing.

And my school desk at the front, I just brought that in.

I thought that was quite nice.

THOMAS: That's quite sweet, the school desk.

Any interest in something like that in London?

Yeah, I think there is actually.

I think people love these sort of things.

I love the ink staining.

It's just the stories, you know.

NATASHA: I just don't know whether somebody-- Yeah, I think it's OK.

I think this is quite a nice thing.

It could be a good spot.

NARRATOR: He spotted something else too.

THOMAS: These are quite fashionable.

Are they?

An easel in somebody's studio apartment with a picture on.

Again, it's affected, it's pretentious.

I just don't know the market, the kind of people.

And that's where I have to defer to your expertise-- The market for-- --and work out what you think is going to sell the best.

I've seen easels do well, and I love the desk and I like the picnic basket as well.

Are you think about all of it?

Well, we could do.

We've got the money.

I mean, why not?

I'd like to get all three for 100 quid or maybe less.

OK, Should we try?

Listen, in terms of strategy, I think you've got a better chance with her than I have.

Do you think so?

Yeah, you work the girls, I work the boys.

[LAUGHING] Go for it.

NARRATOR: If any man can charm a woman, it's Thomas especially in those trousers.

THOMAS: Lisa, Natasha and I have been having a conversation outside.

Now I was wondering, what could you do on the basket, the easel, and the desk?

So the easel is on for 65 and the desk is on for 65.

And this is for 40.

OK, so I can do the easel for 55.

NATASHA: We are on a very tight budget.

But I know, but before she says something that we can't back-- THOMAS: Well, I know.

We can discuss.

LISA: We can discuss it.

- OK. THOMAS: We can discuss.

It's all right.

But just so that you know.

NARRATOR: This was supposed to be Thomas' deal.

Natasha just can't help herself.

So it's a bit more that I was thinking.

Could you do 100 pounds?

120.

What do you think?

I think I'm a better bargainer than you.

NARRATOR: And I think you're right.

LISA: Effectively, you'd be getting both items outside for 50 each, and this for 20.

So this is half price.

THOMAS: So Lisa, 120 pounds is what we're going to offer you, and thank you very much for reducing the prices.

Thank you.

You've been pretty tough.

Do you know, you've been a tough cookie.

Thank you.

Tougher than the men.

Don't be surprised.

Well, no.

Don't be surprised.

Because Natasha's been there, the men have crumbled.

And what does that say about you and me?

Why it makes me feel really bad.

NARRATOR: Deal done.

The easel and desk for 50 pounds each, and the picnic hamper at half price.

A steal at just 20 pounds.

Yes, there we are.

120 pounds.

NATASHA: Thank you very much.

THOMAS: We're done.

Thank you very much.

THOMAS: Thank you.

Bye-bye.

I hope you do really well.

NATASHA: Good luck.

And lovely to meet you.

NATASHA: And you.

THOMAS: And you as well.

NATASHA: Thank you.

THOMAS: Thank you.

Come on, let's go.

NARRATOR: Natasha and Thomas leave their last shop with another three items for auction.

And they boldly spent almost all of their money.

Just across town, Mark's keeping his celebrity in check.

MARK: Age before.

MICHAEL: Oh, yeah.

NARRATOR: Here at Hastings Antique Centre.

Owner, Rob's accumulated a vast stock of fine antiques and quirky collectibles.

- Hi, I'm Robert.

- Pleased to meet you.

Michael and-- Hi, Michael.

Mark.

My assistant, Mark.

Yeah, I'm Michael's assistant.

He's teaching everything I know.

Yeah.

- That's good.

How are you?

Yeah, very well, thanks.

Do you mind if we browse?

No, please do.

NARRATOR: And there's plenty to peruse.

Can you believe it, Michael?

The eyes of Thomas Plant.

MICHAEL: [LAUGHING] How are you, Tom?

Well, that's unkind.

Well, to the pig?

No.

Come on.

I'm looking for his pink trousers.

NARRATOR: Poor Thomas.

These two jokers need to get in the right frame of mind, though.

They have 210 pounds left to spend and have spotted a pair of 1940s picture frames.

MARK: [SPEAKING ITALIAN] Milano, Italy.

NARRATOR: German yesterday, Italian today.

Is there no end to Michael's talents?

MARK: 1944, Italian prisoner of war presumably.

MICHAEL: Would have thought so, but with time on his hands.

Well, he hasn't done a bad job, has he?

I mean, they are beautiful actually.

And nice to get a pair, you know.

You know this type of thing has been going back right to the Napoleonic Wars.

MICHAEL: Really?

NARRATOR: Prisoners of war created art works and handicrafts to sell or barter to their captors or other inmates in exchange for food, clothing, or soap.

There's no ticket price on this pair of intricately carved frames.

Do they appeal to you, Michael?

No.

Oh.

No, I'm interested in the story.

I like the story.

But I'm not very fond of that very decorative-- Over the top flouncyness.

It is, for me.

But yeah.

Plenty of Londoners, I think, would like it.

Do you think so?

And that's great.

Yeah, I was looking at this.

I was looking at-- It's some sort of building thing, isn't it?

Is it?

I think people would have fitted into a lead pipe and-- Oh yes.

Well there it is going out to the bottom.

MARK: But whether it's 1812, I don't know.

Now would this kind of thing sell?

It would, but I think it's going to be a lot of money, Michael.

NARRATOR: There's a strong market in architectural salvage, even bits of old guttering.

This rainwater hopper is just as usable today as it was in 1812.

Fancy an overture?

Should we try and negotiate?

- Should we have a go at that?

- OK. OK. Let's go and have a go.

I'll attack from this side.

Absolutely.

And like a pincer.

NARRATOR: After a bumpy start yesterday, they're working as a team today.

Rob wants 160 pounds for the hopper.

Time for that pincer movement to be put into action.

You might need to sit down.

Sit down, sit down, Robert.

Relax for a moment.

I might come and join you, actually.

I want to see how Michael reacts to this because Michael set his heart on that hopper.

Can I please make you an offer?

Of course.

How close to 100 pounds can we get?

Because Michael really wants to spend 100 pounds on it.

110.

Could we do it for 110?

I'll do it for 110.

Michael?

Done.

There we are.

You are so kind to us, Rob.

A gent.

NARRATOR: Mark's done a great deal.

50 pounds knocked off the lead hopper.

Michael's happy with that.

Great teamwork.

And it leaves them with 100 pounds left to spend.

I still like those frames, you know.

Well, I half liked them in the sense that I'm not particularly fond of the, what I would regard as, over elaborate decoration.

MARK: The Rococo decoration.

MICHAEL: But what I do like about it is there's a story.

MARK: The history.

MICHAEL: Yes, there's a story.

What you're looking for-- 120.

Oh gosh.

MICHAEL: We are very limited on money.

MARK: We are.

MICHAEL: Well, actually let's demonstrate.

There we are.

That's the 110 for the hopper.

ROB: Right, lovely, thank you.

MICHAEL: And that's what's left is 100 quid.

That's all we've got of the budget.

MARK: And we'll have spent everything.

We'll have spent everything.

MARK: Every penny.

You could have all this.

- Can I?

- OK. - Can I take it?

- Yeah.

- I'll take-- - For 100?

I'll take the money.

I'll take your 100 pounds.

You sure?

MICHAEL: You can hear the throb in my voice.

Do you know we're spent out?

We've spent every single penny.

Absolutely.

Well done.

That makes me feel good as well.

Well, it makes me feel good.

Thank you.

NARRATOR: Another deal done.

Michael and Mark have knocked 20 pounds off this pair of frames, and they've made the brave move of spending every penny of their budget.

With shopping complete, it's time for our teams to reveal all.

OK.

So is this a moment where I show you mine and you show me yours?

We'd love to see-- [LAUGHTER] Can you reveal this table and I'll get on these two and reveal that?

Oh dear, I'm going to have to be very, very, very careful with ours.

One, two, three.

Let's go.

MARK: Good heavens.

THOMAS: So it's one, two, three, four, five, six lots.

Six lots.

Not just that.

We've got change.

You've got money left?

We've got money left.

Well, I'm not surprised at that.

Oh, listen to this.

I'm not surprised at that.

So what do you think?

You paid money for that, did you?

Yes, we paid money for this.

The school desk?

Quite a lot.

Lovely school desk.

I used to have one like that, you know, with a-- Sweet.

What did you pay you for that?

Well, we're not going to tell them that, are we?

Yes.

50, 50-- Oh.

And these are scent sprays.

So how much did you spend in total?

395 pounds.

Oh, well you've-- [APPLAUSE] We did it.

We did it.

That's pretty impressive.

I think you've got something for everyone.

THOMAS: We've got something for everyone.

You really have.

We're quite impressed.

And what do you think of our lights?

I like them.

Do you mind if I just have a quick-- - They're actually very London.

- They are.

Well, that's what we thought.

We were trying to do big and bold.

They are absolutely great.

Yeah, we're very pleased about those.

Those actually could be your winning lot.

NARRATOR: Come on, then.

Just a little late now.

Are you ready for-- I am ready.

I am ready to show offerings.

Wow!

So Mark's got his hand on a piece of German onavo.

Yes.

W.M.F.

The best factory.

The best factory.

Can I ask what this is?

It's a lead hopper.

And that is?

It's where the water flows down the pipes.

- On the outside.

- Oh, I rather like that.

And I think that's absolutely gorgeous.

Actually, I do think that is rather splendid.

MICHAEL: Oh, it is wonderful.

[INTERPOSING VOICES] That is our weak point.

What is that?

That is our winning one.

That is your absolute-- Look at what he's holding?

Lovely gold.

Is it a leprechaun or a gnome?

It's a gnome.

Make gnome mistake about this.

Oh, make gnome mistake.

Can I ask how much it was?

MARK: 15 pounds.

15?

But it's a pen and ink drawing.

I think you were robbed.

And how can I put this?

May the best man win.

Indeed.

Which rules you out, Natasha.

Oh.

No.

You'll eat your words.

I will.

NARRATOR: Core, strong, fighting talk.

But is it bravado or bluff?

I think behind the bluster, they're worried.

I think they are.

Well, I love the hopper.

I mean I would genuinely bid for that.

I think that is really smart.

Oh my God.

You can't really bid for one of their items.

And our lights.

Actually, I do like our lights.

I think they envied us at hopper.

I think they were surprised, actually when they saw.

Of course, they absolutely adored the garden gnome and they both wanted to take it home, didn't they?

[GRUNTS] They're going to have to make money on it because it was so cheap.

And it's so dreadful.

It is.

Somebody might buy it as a joke.

The lights are the tricky one.

If somebody takes a shine to them, you know, they could make 300 or 400.

So are you feeling marginally confident?

I always feel confident.

That's a bad sign.

That's a really bad sign.

But it's all down to the auction.

All down to the auction.

Breaking news at that time.

More of that later, as they say.

[MUSIC PLAYING] NARRATOR: Our team's road trip saw them taking the South coast, and now they're making their way to auction in Twickenham in greater London.

NATASHA: So how are you feeling about tonight?

Well, I'm feeling-- I was pretty confident after the buying.

But now I've talked to people, my wife Christine included.

And my confidence is not quite as high as it was.

Oh really?

Well, she does say things like, a gnome?

NATASHA: [LAUGHING] It's been such an eye-opener and I really admire our experts because they've kind of given me a look into a whole new world.

Yeah, they've been good fun too.

The other thing I found slightly disconcerting is, I'm meant to be the celebrity but wherever we go, it's always Mark who is recognized.

Hello.

How are you?

How are you?

Nice to see you again.

I wish you the best of luck.

I wish you the best of luck.

Not.

Did I have a deep well of insincerity there?

How are you?

You all right?

Very good.

Are you excited?

Well, I am.

I'm very excited.

A little bit nervous actually.

- Well, it's about to start.

Oh, it is.

It is.

It is.

Ladies first, obviously.

NARRATOR: Today's auction is at High Road Auctions and David Holmes is the man with the gavel.

Favorite item, I would say would probably be the pair of Italian car frames.

Lovely quality.

I like those a lot.

The item that we'll struggle with I imagine would probably be the easel.

An interesting lot, but we'll probably struggle to find a buyer for that one.

The gnome picture is unusual, a bit of an oddball, that one.

I'm not sure.

We'll see.

Two ship lanterns, well they're in good condition.

The lenses are good.

Fingers crossed on those.

NARRATOR: Can keep everything crossed.

Natasha's persuasive haggling bought her and Thomas six lots for 395 pounds.

Michael and Mark had a bumpier ride, but managed to spend every penny they had on five interesting lots.

Which will make the most money?

Here's hoping the bidders are ready, because it's time for the auction.

First up is Natasha and Thomas' wicker picnic hamper bought for 20 pounds.

Get me 20 pounds for it.

20 pounds is bid.

25 bid.

30.

NARRATOR: Must be worth more than that, surely?

DAVID: Last chance.

Are we all done?

I'm going to sell at 30.

It's a good profit.

10 pound profit.

NARRATOR: Great start, making some money from the off.

But I thought that was going to go for mega bucks.

Oh no.

NARRATOR: Next up, the bronze Chinese bowl Michael and bought for 25 pounds.

We'll ask you 50 pounds to get it started.

50.

Come along, guys.

50.

Thank you, online.

All 50's bid online?

50 pound, the maiden bid with the internet buyer.

I'll take five once more.

They're making coffee.

Are we done at 50?

Internet buyer.

Was that you on the internet?

[LAUGHING] NARRATOR: That piece of bronze turned into gold.

They've doubled their money.

The next lot is the First World War Christmas box.

Natasha negotiated a great deal for this.

Just 15 pounds.

DAVID: 25 pounds.

[INTERPOSING VOICES] 35.

40.

40 pounds, bid.

5 again?

Any bids online?

Last chance.

Yes.

[INAUDIBLE] for that.

Well, that's brilliant you will take that.

Well done.

NARRATOR: The gavel is down at 40 pounds, making a 25 pound profit.

The next thing is your gnome picture.

Oh, no.

Can I leave the room?

NARRATOR: Michael, sit tight.

You've never been a fan of the gnome, but it was love at first sight for Mark.

Was he right to gamble 15 pounds of your money?

Here goes.

Bid me 100 pounds for this.

Bid me 100.

100 pounds?

[INTERPOSING VOICES] Whose good a bid on it.

Must be 50 pounds only.

20 pounds.

Where's the internet?

10?

NARRATOR: Oh dear.

He started at 100 pounds.

Thank you.

15 again.

At 10 pounds only.

We've got some very glum faces in front of me here, I can tell you that.

I've got 10 pounds only.

20 bid.

5 again.

Yes.

DAVID: 20 pounds, the bid there.

I'll take 5 again.

25 at the back of the room.

The frames [INTERPOSING VOICES] Go on.

So we all done at 25.

10 pounds profit.

Well done.

Well, we made a profit.

It's off your hands most importantly.

NARRATOR: Some brilliant auctioneering sees the gnome make 10 pounds profit for Michael and Mark.

Well, Mark actually.

Not as bad as I thought, I have to say.

So far, both teams have been making profits and are neck and neck.

But now, one of Natasha and Thomas gamble purchases at 50 pounds, they were both worried they paid too much for the school desk.

Time to find out.

And we have a bid on this and it starts at 20 pounds only.

I'll take five in the room.

At 20 pounds, the bid.

25 in the room.

30 with me.

5 again.

A little bit of Victorian pitch pine at 30 pounds, the bid is on the-- - No, more.

DAVID: 35.

It's doing really well.

35 with the internet.

Done at 35?

No!

Oh dear.

Oh dear.

NARRATOR: Oh, bad luck.

But there's still time to make up for this small loss.

This was all part of our strategy, don't worry about it.

Is it?

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

NARRATOR: Next up, Michael and Mark's frames beautifully carved by an Italian prisoner of war and bought for 100 pounds.

We can start them at 50 pounds only.

Come on, we need a lot more.

DAVID: 60 in the room or on the internet.

5 taken, 60 in the room.

5 again, internet buyer.

70 in the room.

5 on the book.

80 I want in the room.

75 pounds.

Last chance.

That's terrible.

25 pound loss there, lads.

Not the end of the world.

NARRATOR: Such a shame for a pair of fabulous frames.

Natasha's negotiations gave them a good discount on this pair of atomizers.

Can they turn a profit or will there be a smell about?

DAVID: 20 pounds.

Who's got to bid?

The two lovely atomizers.

25 again.

At 20 pounds, 25.

30.

5.

30 pounds I've taken in the room.

I'll take five, internet buyer.

40.

40 now.

[INTERPOSING VOICES] Any bids at 5?

Thank you.

60 pounds internet buyer.

55 the ladies that I have in the room.

Are we done at 55?

Give them a chance.

NARRATOR: So Natasha's skills have paid off again.

Now an item Michael spotted, the WMF brass and copper bowl bought for 150 pounds.

DAVID: That'll be 110 for the WMF.

At 100 pounds, 110.

[INTERPOSING VOICES] - That's good.

Well done.

140.

150.

160.

170.

160.

The bid with me, Madam.

I'll take 170 the last.

175?

I'm going to go 180, Madam.

190 the lady's bid.

[INTERPOSING VOICES] DAVID: 190 pound the lady's bid.

Any further bids?

I have you there, Madam.

Are we done at 190?

I'm very happy for you.

We got out of there.

NARRATOR: Cool.

Michael's instincts have rewarded him with a profit there.

Well done.

Out of jail.

NARRATOR: And now, beautifully modeled is the easel.

It costs 50 pounds.

Thomas was sure this would fetch big bucks.

Natasha wasn't convinced.

Now the moment of truth.

I have a bid of 15.

20.

5, Madam?

25.

30 pounds internet buyer.

30 bid.

5 again, Madam.

30 pounds on the internet.

You'll make him a very happy man.

Final time.

Done at 35.

Loads of time.

Better number.

We didn't do well on those two, but you were right.

You were right, Natasha.

I have to say you were right.

I shouldn't have bought them.

NARRATOR: A 15 pounds loss.

Bad luck.

But it proves Natasha has a great instinct and eye.

Now Michael and Mark's final lot.

They paid 110 pounds for the reclaimed rainwater hopper.

And it has to go straight in at 90 pounds.

I'll take 100 the hopper.

100 is bid.

[INAUDIBLE] 10 taken.

15 internet.

110.

15 in the room.

120.

5 again.

Last chance, internet buyer.

We done.

It's going to be sold at 120.

I think that was all right.

It was better than we-- It was.

It was better than we thought, but not enough.

NARRATOR: Don't grumble chaps.

A 10 pound profit is not to be sneezed at.

And with your other profits, you're well out in front.

Take my pulse.

Look at it, jumping out of my wrist.

NARRATOR: The tension is high as the auction comes to a close for our road trippers.

The final lot is Natasha and Thomas's biggest gamble, the pair of ships lanterns cost 210 pounds.

These have got to make at least 300 pounds.

Could happen, Thomas.

DAVID: 25.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel for you.

NARRATOR: Two of them in fact.

And two bids on the boat, we have to start them at 150 pounds for the pair.

I'll take 160.

170.

180.

190.

200.

220.

240.

NARRATOR: Here we go.

- 260.

280.

300.

320.

I told you.

360.

380.

400.

420.

440.

460.

470.

480.

- OK. You can stop now.

DAVID: 490.

500.

- Well, that's quite enough.

DAVID: 510.

I'll take 20, Madam.

Are we done at 510?

- Yes.

- Whoo!

Thank you!

[APPLAUSE] That was brilliant.

NARRATOR: That's a stonking 300 pound profit.

Well done.

Well done.

I was relieved.

[INTERPOSING VOICES] Let's go and work out who has won.

Oh we had best try and do that.

NARRATOR: Well, despite making a profit on all but one of their lots, after paying auction house commission Michael and made a loss of 22 pounds and 80 Pence leaving them with a total of 377 pounds and 20p.

But Natasha and Thomas have come out on top.

After paying costs they have a marvelous profit of 183 pounds and 10p giving them a grand total of 583 pounds and 10 Pence.

Well done.

And all the profit goes to children in need.

Don't they make a nice couple?

Anyway, lovely working with you.

Yes, yes.

Exactly.

We must do it again sometime.

[INTERPOSING VOICES] Lovely to have met you.

It was so lovely.

Michael.

Michael, thank you.

- It's been great.

- You're a very clever man.

I don't know about.

Thank you very much.

Well, the gnome's your fault.

Stop it.

Come on.

It's over.

- Bye-bye.

- Bye-bye.

- Bye-bye.

See you soon.

You know I'll never forgive you, don't you?

- I know.

- Bye-bye.

They were lovely.

I hate you.

Yeah, I know you hate me.

I think out of all the times you've beaten me-- Such a fluke.

All the times you've beaten me-- Absolute fluke.

I think I've managed just to eclipse it all.

Yeah, whatever.

NARRATOR: Now, now chap.

But I've enjoyed the experience so much.

It's been such a lot of fun, don't you think?

It's been an entry into a new world for me.

Actually, it's brought out the hunter-gatherer of me.

Oh, has it.

Yep, yep, yeah.

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