麻豆社

How do you find life on the road?

I love it. Meeting new people and travelling to new places are two of my favourite things! I always try to combine any journey with a visit to an historic house or museum to try and learn more as I go.

What is your favourite part of your role?

Everything! Being a Bargain Hunt expert is fabulous, having fun with the teams, and working with the other experts and crew is a dream come true. As a dealer, it is the thrill of looking for that great find that maybe has been forgotten, and allowing it to become someone else’s treasure.

Why did you choose a career in antiques?

Antiques and history have been a passion of mine since childhood. I started collecting stamps aged 9 or 10, and dragged my parents to antique shops to help me find more. Once I saw all the other things you could buy that were so interesting, that was it!

One of the first ever auctions I went to as a child was a big country house sale where the contents had been untouched for decades. It was like walking into a museum where everything was for sale. I decided there I would do everything possible to become an auctioneer as it seemed like being a time traveller.

What would you do for a living if you weren’t working in the antiques trade?

That is a tricky one. I would have to work with objects still, so something along the lines of an interior designer; that way you get to be creative, buy and handle interesting pieces and find a way to make them shine.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to work in antiques?

It can be tough but if you are truly passionate then it’s marvellous.

You can never know everything and never stop learning. Most local libraries have good sections on antiques and art history if you are looking for somewhere to start.

I would say go to as many auctions, fairs and exhibitions as you can. Don’t be afraid to ask to look at objects in person, particularly at an auction. Go to places, even if you can’t afford anything there - it is a good opportunity to see the very best the antiques trade has to offer. Ask questions - most specialists and collectors are happy to help and discuss items with you.

If you aren’t able to get out and about or travel, look online. There are lots of great online auction catalogues and dealers’ websites for inspiration and information.

How did you get involved in Bargain Hunt?

I was fortunate enough to work with the wonderful Charlie Ross on the 麻豆社’s Antiques Road Trip, and he recommended me to the Bargain Hunt team. After a screen test and a few weeks of nervously waiting they asked me to start filming!

Which fairs do you particularly like shopping at when ‘bargain hunting’?

I think Ardingly is a great fair; they’ve been going for 50 years (which shows I am not the only one who thinks so) and Sunbury Antiques Market at Kempton. Dorking Halls Fair is also a good one for a Sunday morning.

What is your biggest guilty pleasure?

My biggest guilty pleasure is probably cake.

How do you spend your free time?

Any free time I have, I am always watching films, reading about films, and looking at movie posters. I also go to lots of exhibitions and travel as much as possible to see family and friends.

Do you collect anything?

I don’t really collect anything in particular, although I do own quite a few dresses and coats! I have been lucky enough to handle some breath-taking objects during my career, which I would never be able to afford. Now I am a dealer, I occasionally hold on to some things for a little bit too long so I can enjoy them before they find a new home.

Why do you think Bargain Hunt has such appeal?

Bargain Hunt is so entertaining, the contestants make it. Every team is different, with a totally different approach – some with a plan, some completely random. There is risk involved and you are never quite sure what people will buy. Auctions can be an entertaining spectacle and you are never quite sure what the outcome will be.

Why would you encourage anyone to appear on Bargain Hunt?

The show is great fun; you get to be a television star and an antiques dealer for the day without spending any of your own money.