NARRATOR: The nation's favorite celebrities-- We are special then, are we?
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.
And sell it at good price.
Oh, I love it.
NARRATOR: The aim, to make the biggest profit at auction.
Yes!
NARRATOR: But it's no easy ride.
There's no accounting for taste.
NARRATOR: Who will find a hidden gem?
Who will take the biggest risks?
Will anybody follow expert advice?
You're not listening to a word I'm saying.
No.
No.
NARRATOR: There will be worthy winners and valiant losers.
- Are you happy?
- Yes.
- Promise?
- Ecstatic.
NARRATOR: Time to put your pedal to the metal.
This is "Celebrity Antiques Road Trip."
[MUSIC PLAYING] Today we're in North East London with two ladies of nobility.
Please be upstanding for Baroness Oona King and Dame Jenni Murray.
All right, I'll turn it.
You get ready to drive.
Right.
One, two, three.
Do you have to take it out of park to do it?
There.
There, then.
Well done.
[MUSIC PLAYING] NARRATOR: National treasure journalist and broadcaster Dame Jenni Murray kicked her career off working for BBC radio Bristol and local news program, South Today.
But it's as the anchor of radio 4's Woman's Hour that she's famed for.
Hello, Jenni Murray welcoming you to Wednesday's edition of "The Woman's Hour" podcast.
NARRATOR: Battling Dame Jenni is Baroness King of Bow, or Oona, as she also likes to be known.
As a politician, writer, and broadcast executive, Baroness Oona is a woman of great energy.
And in 2011 was elevated to the House of Lords where she sits on the labor benches.
Known to each other across the microphone, they'll be motoring in this 1966 Mercedes Benz 250 SE.
The one area that I can imagine being very competitive in, though I've never been given the chance before in my life, is shopping.
Game on, misses, like I will take you out.
NARRATOR: No fisticuffs please, girls.
Assisting our feisty females on this trip are two charismatic experts in antiques, Christina Trevanion and David Harper.
This is going to be an interesting one.
Yeah, we've got two very high flying ladies, haven't we?
Haven't we just?
Haven't we just?
NARRATOR: Today, our experts are motoring around this nippy little 1979 Triumph Spitfire.
With 400 pounds to spend, our two pairs will be kicking things off in Chingford.
And then taking a trip all around parts of North and East London buying up as they go before making their way south to Sheerness in Kent, where they will go head to head at auction.
Time for our ladies to meet our experts.
Oh, wow look at the car.
Oh, look experts.
Hello, our experts are here.
Hello, we're here.
NARRATOR: The pairings for this road trip are David and Baroness Oona.
Lovely to meet you.
NARRATOR: And Christina and Dame Jenni, not that I'm name dropping, you know.
So have we decided then that you two have got the big Mercedes?
- Yeah, I think so.
- It seems that way.
I think you and I-- But I'm going to give her permission to drive it.
Oh, that's so kind, Jenni, so kind.
No, I'm just saying I'm very unfussed about it.
Whatever.
Go with the plan.
Luckily, the first shop is actually walking so-- Exactly.
Shall we walk together?
Let's take a stroll in this wonder weather.
Let us shut the door.
Yes, probably a good idea.
Bye bye, beautiful car.
Yes, we'll see you later.
See you later.
NARRATOR: Both teams are heading to the same location to start their shopping, at Linden Antiques Fair in Chingford.
This monthly event, as is a real mix of traders, so there should be something to tickle everyone's taste buds.
Oh, the Ming vase.
Who wants some Ming vase?
We do want a Ming vase.
Oona, let's go upstairs.
Right, let's go upstairs.
Oh, there's champagne.
Let's just go and find a Minging vase.
[LAUGHTER] NARRATOR: What will take our girl's fancy?
Oh, a little Scottie dog.
Oh, are you a dog fan?
Oh, am I a dog fan?
Yeah, not Scotties.
I've got three.
Oh, have you?
Yeah, they're chihuahuas.
Oh, gorgeous.
And I've always had dogs.
But some of this jewelry is really-- It's very impressive, isn't it?
And what I love about costume jewelry is it's so affordable.
And it's so wearable.
It does just jazz up an outfit, doesn't it?
That's fancy.
That's really lovely.
NARRATOR: And upstairs, it's jewelry that's got Oona going too.
All right, Oona, tell me why you love that.
I like the color.
I like the texture.
It's kind of not perfect.
And I like that.
In the world of art and antiques imperfections make something perfect because we're not interested in objects that are made in their millions all the same.
We want individual pieces of art.
Knowing who you are, I predicted that you'd be going for more 20th century fashion, art and things.
And that is 1980s chic.
NARRATOR: The pendant has a ticket price of 24 pounds.
And I can't come down any more than 2% on it for the 22.
I can't come down any lower than that.
But I've only got, I've got a 20 pounds note to hand you right here right now.
Well, 21 would be my best.
OK, 21 pounds then.
He's not going any lower, is he?
He's not.
He's not.
Thank you.
Oh, OK, all right.
Thank you very much.
NARRATOR: We've just witnessed our first deal of the trip.
Meanwhile, Jenni and Christina are still perusing the costume jewelry.
Ooh, that's pretty.
Can we have a little look at this one?
I love the colors on it.
Isn't that fabulous?
What do you think that?
That's lovely.
What period is that from?
Probably said that 20s, 30s, would you not?
I would say a little bit earlier personally.
Can I just have a look at the back?
I'll tell you what I was just thinking.
The colors of the stones-- Yeah.
are reminiscent of suffragette colors.
They certainly are.
Yes, well-- They're green, white and purple.
Well done, Jenni.
Fantastic.
Yeah, absolutely, well-- Well, I'm into that kind of thing, you know.
The suffrage movement, yeah, absolutely.
NARRATOR: Women campaigning for the right to vote devised an innovative way to advertise their allegiance by using jewelry with the color scheme of the movement.
Purple for dignity, white for purity, and green for hope.
I'm kind of sold on that one already but I know I have to negotiate.
Well the thing, don't say things like that.
Oh, sorry.
Is that a bad way to do it?
Yes.
NARRATOR: She'll soon get the hang of it.
What have you got on, having sung its praises, what have you got on it?
I guess we shouldn't have done that, should we?
No, that's horrible.
The very, very is going to be 40 pounds, isn't?
40 pounds.
Yeah, I can't go any lower than that.
How do you feel about that?
It's a bargain.
I had 65 to start with.
65?
I did have 65 to start with.
OK, so you've gone down to 40 for us.
That's very generous, very, very generous.
Thank you.
I really, really like it.
It's stunning colors, isn't it?
I decided I would go on things I really, really like.
I know I have to think about whether we can sell them at a profit.
But I think we should go for that actually.
Yup, 40 pounds, you sure there's no more off the price?
- No.
- Absolutely sure?
I'll tell you I'll be making a loss if I do.
Well, we wouldn't want you to do that.
And I think 40 to 60 pounds at auction would be a very fair estimate for it.
So I'm happy at that.
Cheers, darling.
Thank you very, very much.
We're very grateful, that.
Are you pleased?
- Yes.
- Good.
- I am.
One down.
Fantastic, here we go.
Speed.
Like it.
NARRATOR: Oh, remember it's not a race girls.
It's all about picking out what will sell well.
And it looks like David's come for a snoop around the same store.
Oh my gosh, is that silver?
That is silver.
Asprey and Co.
It is not.
It is.
Oh, oh.
Oh, Oona, please tell me that you are in love.
Yeah, I'm getting that way.
I mean, sort of.
I mean, yeah.
I mean, what, who, why are you so excited?
Because it's Asprey.
Yeah, but I don't know, that doesn't mean anything to me.
It's just the brand.
It's the retailer.
It's the place where they sell just the most exquisite, fabulous objects.
It one of the best silver smiths.
Yeah, now look, this is really lovely.
How much you say?
Well the very best is 120.
And I can't go any lower that that.
No lower than that except 110.
I can't, honestly.
That's getting my money back on that.
So are you a risk taker?
Yeah.
You could not have done what you've done in your life without taking big chances.
Yeah, no that's not a risk.
I mean compared to some of the risk I take.
That's not a risk.
OK, shall we do it?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Go on.
- Let's do it.
- Get the cash.
Get the cash out.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
NARRATOR: 120 pounds there for the silver Asprey of London notepad and pen.
And it looks like the silver streak continuing over with Jenni and Christina.
This is what looks to be Chinese, or certainly Eastern, little piece of silver.
Very sweet, very popular right now.
They often did these and exported them into this country as many holders, or place card markers on a table.
Oh, so it's not just an ornament.
It has a use.
It would have had a use but obviously it's an oxen pulling a carriage, or something like that.
That seems really sweet and they are selling really quite well at auction at the moment.
Yeah, does it look like it's marked but if that weren't silver I would eat my non-existent hat.
That's Interesting.
It's different.
You've got 18 pounds on it.
Is that your best, best price on that?
Can come down a little bit to 16.
16?
A bit further than that.
Can't.
You'll do it for 14?
[INTERPOSING VOICES] Meet me in the middle with 15.
15?
I think that seems very reasonable.
I think it probably dates to the early 20th century.
I think 15 pounds, I might regret it, but I don't think we can go wrong with that.
OK. Yeah?
Yes, I mean, I'm not crazy about it.
But if you think we can make a profit.
I loved the first thing we bought.
Yeah, so we bought something with our heart.
I bought something with a heart, something with our heads.
- Something with our head.
Yeah.
- Definitely.
- Shall we do it?
- For 15.
15 pounds.
Done.
Wonderful.
- Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
NARRATOR: So shop one and they've already got two lots.
These girls mean business.
Oona and David still have a thirst though for bargains.
Oona, do like a little drop of champagne, darling?
Funny enough, I think I excel possibly at being a champagne socialist.
Are you really?
Possibly, people have, it has been said.
Has it really?
I'm happy to go for prosecco.
I drank much worse than that.
But I'll tell you what I like, I like that.
But it's never held champagne.
It's an advertising piece.
This decoration here is screaming art nouveau.
Yeah, absolutely.
Yeah.
Do you speak French?
Yeah.
Right, what does that say?
Belle Epoque which means beautiful time, or beautiful era.
Beautiful era, dated 1988.
So it's celebrating-- Yeah that was so shocking.
Its celebrating all those boys in the city having the-- Yeah.
All right, OK.
But it's celebrating the centenary of art nouveau, 1888.
Oh, I see.
So it's quite a nice and it's hand painted.
But what do you reckon that it's worth?
I think because novelty things do well, advertising things do well, a bonkers estimate 20 to 50 pounds.
NARRATOR: Best call over stallholder Michael to find out the ticket price.
What are you selling this for?
I was looking for about 50.
Really?
Yes.
He said 20 to 30.
It would need to be 20, if you are interested.
I see, the lowest possibly we'd go, 45.
Really?
Yeah.
We can't buy it for 45.
What about 25?
NARRATOR: Gosh, she's good.
40?
I can't.
We can't.
We can't.
- Don't think we can.
No, listen, it doesn't matter.
It's nice.
It is nice.
But it's not that late.
30, final offer?
Well look, we'll go for 30.
Are you going to take our money or not?
As it's you, I will.
I'll do it for you.
Thank you.
That's very kind.
I'll have two, please.
Go on give us a kiss.
I'm only kidding.
He went for that.
I can't believe it.
Thank you very much.
NARRATOR: So 30 smackers has sealed them the champagne bottle.
And it looks like Jenni and Christina have been bitten by the buying bug, as something else has caught their eye-- a restored Art Deco Chiparus-style figure modeled as an exotic dancer.
I can't see any tickets on anything.
How much is-- are these?
It's 120, 120 pounds.
120?
OK, right.
Because of the restoration.
Yeah, we know it would be a lot more if she hadn't.
I think with the restoration, I sort of looked at about 80 pounds.
You want my personal opinion?
I think the damage is of great concern.
We're going to a general sale where I'm not entirely sure that she'll be massively appreciated.
She is quite a niche market.
Having said that, she is stunning.
You're not listening to a word I'm saying?
No.
No, I'm just looking at her.
It's just that line, the way her back goes and I know it's been stuck back on but I don't care.
Is that your absolute final price on her?
75?
What do you want to do?
Yes.
Yeah.
Thank you so much.
Oh good Lord.
Somebody is going to fall in love with her just as much as we have.
NARRATOR: A whopping 45 pounds off the ticket price of the ivoirien and spelta art deco style figure but will it prove a risky purchase at auction?
Deals here done, it's time for the teams to split up and move on.
Jenni and Christina have forked out 130 pounds on three items for the auction so far and are now back on the road, heading to South Woodford for the next pit stop.
Winston Churchill was MP in this area when he was prime minister during the Second World War.
And our Jenni has had dealings with past prime ministers herself.
Are you ever nervous about potentially asking a question that somebody would go I'm not and the whole tone of the interview changing?
Well the only time that happened to me, really happened to me, was with Margaret Thatcher.
When-- You've interviewed Margaret Thatcher?
Well I was interested in her with what it was like to be the woman prime minister, you know.
She always said I'm not a woman prime minister, I'm prime minister.
But of course always her gender was referred to it.
Always, always, always.
So I put together this question that included the fact that her first cabinet had treated as if she were the cleaning lady, that people always referred to her giving a hand bagging.
No one ever refers to a man giving anybody a briefcasing.
And you know President Mitterand had said, she had the eyes of Caligula.
Did he?
And the lips of Marilyn Monroe.
But what did she say when you interviewed her?
She just said nothing.
She just looked at me as if I were a complete lunatic.
Really?
And I realized then that Bernard Ingham had been such a proficient press Secretary, he'd only given her what he felt she needed from the papers.
So she'd never heard what you were saying?
So all this stuff about hand bagging, President Mitterand, I think she'd never heard it.
She heard it for the first time.
So-- So she'd heard it from you.
She was in shock.
Really?
I think so.
Go on in.
After you.
Thank you.
You're very welcome.
NARRATOR: Well hopefully Jenni will have a little more luck quizzing Michael of Victoria Antiques on his hoard of hidden items.
Ding ding, all aboard.
I found a little bus which I know she's going to tell me, it won't make anything at auction cause the last thing that I bought she said it won't make anything at auction.
But I liked it so much.
So we bought two sensible things and one silly thing.
And what do you think of this bus?
A London bus.
It won't make anything at auction.
I knew you were going to say that.
NARRATOR: She was listening.
It's rather sweet.
London Transport RTW double decker.
It's Jacob's cream cracker on it.
Oh, made in China, dishwasher proof.
Do you my auntie, she wasn't really my auntie, she was a friend of my mother's.
She ran a grocery shop for her dad.
And she had an affair with the Jacob's cream crackers salesman.
No.
How racy?
She did.
And we had a lot of free Jacob's cream crackers when I was a child so it has a kind of personal appeal for me.
How much is on your bus?
Please don't tell me more than a pound.
Three times 1 pound, 3 pound.
Yeah, go on.
A couple of quid.
A couple of quid and you've got a deal.
- Yeah, OK. - A couple of quid?
That's fine.
NARRATOR: I don't think it'll make much at auction but they did get it for a steal.
It's a shame it hasn't got its perspex box.
It hasn't got any age to it.
It's probably not going to make as much money.
NARRATOR: So while Jenni and Christina are buying from the heart rather than the head, Oona and David are making their way South towards Dagenham.
So is this your neck of the woods then?
Well, East London is my neck of the woods but this is a bit far out my zone.
And I go about as far as Bexton.
And I live in Myland.
So basically, no, I haven't got a clue where we are.
You see I thought we in the South of England.
I'm with the Southern girl, she's going to know all of this area but of course-- I think maybe it's because I was born in Sheffield, what can I say?
- You won't?
Yeah.
You're a northern girl.
I can't believe it.
I'm masquerading not just as a southerner but as a Baroness.
- You're in disguise.
- I am.
Yeah, totally I am.
I bet it's half the time they don't know me in parliament.
Because they honestly, because like if I'm cycling, I look a complete state to be fair.
And I'm look more like a cycling career and they ask me who I'm here to visit.
And they won't let me in.
I'm visiting my son.
No way.
Seriously.
NARRATOR: I'm sure they soon regretted making that mistake with the Baroness.
This afternoon, they've come to Dagenham, home of the Beacon Tree Estate, which when built was the largest housing estate in the world.
In 1930, Reverend Joseph Graves became a minister in the newest estate and needed to raise money to build a church.
Despite not being Scottish, he had a fascination for bagpipes which saw him coming up with a novel idea of starting not only an English bagpipe band but an all-female one too.
And so the world's first female bagpipe band was created and called the Dagenham Girl Pipers.
To tell Oona and David more is current pipe major, Sheila.
So all the girls that were pipers came off this estate?
Yes, and they all used to go to Sunday school at Osborne Hall.
And it was the Reverend Graves that had the first idea of getting all girl pipe band together.
So he set up the girl band as a novelty draw, like a feature?
No, I don't think it was ever a novelty.
He had serious intentions that the girls would be performing as they did all over the world.
For money to raise funds.
To raise funds for the church.
Over here is the first sheet music the girls were taught from and here's the memoirs from Reverend Graves.
Oh, so this is his actual diary, is it?
Yes.
Oh, and here he's detailing the first meeting.
Is it surprising that Saturday, October, 4, 1930 it was an emotional experience for me?
12 small girls, all giggles, seated in a semi-circle.
To me.
It was first tangible evidence that a life dream was in prospect of being fulfilled.
Something really big happened in that Tameside town that morning, the Dagenham Girl Pipers were born.
Wow, that's quite powerful stuff, isn't it?
It really is.
NARRATOR: Reverend Graves hired pipe major Taylor, formerly of the kings own Scottish borders, to teach the girls piping, drumming, marching, and highland dance, along with strict rules of no smoking, drinking, or make up.
And did everybody believe in this new fangled thing of a girl pipe band?
Well pipe major Taylor didn't first of all.
Seriously?
Yeah, he thought it would never ever happen.
He couldn't imagine girl saxonists playing pipes.
But why did he attempt to teach them then?
Well because I think it's a challenge, isn't it when you're asked.
So it took a time to I think for Reverend Graves to persuade him which he did.
And of course he started piping school.
Right, well he must have been a good teacher, I suppose.
He must have been.
I think he was a good teacher, yes.
Yeah.
NARRATOR: After 18 months of training, the Pipers gave their first public concert to an appreciative audience of journalists and bookings soon flooded in.
Within six years, the Dagenham Girl Pipers were notching up 400 engagements a year.
And in 1937, even performed in front of a pre-war Hitler who said he wished he had a pipe band just like them.
How much success did they actually have in the end?
They've had success all over the world.
I think we've visited most probably every country.
And there's some photographs here.
Where?
Oh, this is Buckingham Palace though isn't it?
A bit closer to home.
That's Buckingham Palace, Victory Parade.
So this is '45.
- Churchill.
- Yeah, OK. Where's Churchill?
Churchill's here and then you've got the King and the Queen.
Nice.
So they start off from the Dagenham Council Estate and ended up-- - And ended up --outside Buckingham Palace.
Yes.
NARRATOR: They're increasing celebrity saw them rub shoulders with some of the biggest names in the business.
So who else did they play for?
Sinatra.
Frank Sinatra.
Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley.
Elvis Presley.
Vera Lynn.
Wow.
Roger Moore.
Very good.
NARRATOR: For the past 84 years the band members may have changed, but the Dagenham Girl Pipers are still going strong.
[MUSIC PLAYING] Wow.
Yay, that's amazing.
Thank you so much, Sheila.
That's incredible.
Our pleasure.
NARRATOR: And with the dulcet tones of the pipes still ringing in their ears, the sun sets on the first day of the trip.
Nighty-night, girls.
[NON-ENGLISH] The next morning, our experts are making their way to meet their formidable female companions.
If anybody said to you, you're going to be going out with a Dame and a Baroness, normally you'd be quivering in your boots, wouldn't you?
Let's be honest.
You can't help it.
And it's naughty that we have those sorts of preconceptions because they are totally not the sort of untouchable people.
But we British, that's the way we are.
That's the way we are.
Yeah.
You think they might be.
NARRATOR: They'll be kicking off the trip today from Finsbury Park.
Oh, look.
- Here they come.
- Finally.
Look at us appearing from behind-- What time do you call this?
We've been here for hours.
- Sorry.
- Sorry.
It looks so bad.
It's this one, she can't get out of bed.
NARRATOR: So far Baroness Oona has spent 171 pounds on three items, the 1980s silver and glass pendant, the silver Asprey notebook, and an advertising champagne bottle from 1988, leaving 229 pounds to spend today.
While Dame Jenni has spent a little less paying 132 pounds for four items, a silver and semi-precious stone brooch, a Chinese silver oxen and a cart figurine, and art deco statue, and model London bus, which means she still has 268 pounds to play with.
And there should be plenty of things to catch her eye at the next shop as they've popped around the corner to Regent's antiques.
Specializing in furniture, owner Tino also has a large collection of silver, porcelain, and decorative items.
Ooh, look at that.
NARRATOR: Ooh, and automatic lighting, which Christina loves.
I'm easily pleased, Jenni.
Oh, look a radio.
1940s That's not a radio.
That's a wireless.
Oh, wireless.
She's right.
NARRATOR: That's you told, Christina.
I love old radios, I mean-- Do you?
Well, this is the sort of thing I listen to as a child.
I listened with mother.
And I tell you, she's sitting comfortably and I sit on a little leather cushions.
I sat on that next to the wireless.
And I was sitting comfortably listening.
Listen to this story.
And then they'd say another Woman's Hour with Marjorie Anderson.
Oh, fantastic.
[INTERPOSING VOICES] Having been a child and listening to Woman's Hour, did you ever think you'd be presenting it?
I think it might have been at that point that I decided that's what I wanted to do.
Really?
Yeah.
Wow.
And look at you now.
Yeah, the most exciting moment of my life when they said, and now Woman's Hour with Jennie Murray.
And you just go, oh, really, how can that be?
How did that happen?
It was a good moment.
Oh, well done.
Oh.
NARRATOR: Well done indeed but if you're not going to buy the wireless, best move on.
And remember buying from the head not the heart please, Jenni.
Today, I'm taking Christina's advice.
Am I welcome in your study, mum?
Yes, hello.
What do you think that?
That was from one of the last Concorde flights.
Was it?
Did you fly on Concorde?
No, I didn't.
Quite interesting, isn't it?
It looks like it's obviously got the whole-- if you turn it slightly in the light.
Very flexible.
And then you've got special Concorde mark on this.
How much is on that, do you know?
Well, I can't get any more but 75 it can be.
This is auction and we've got to think about selling at auction.
You must sell that, I guarantee you.
You can have for 60.
At 40 pounds?
No, I can't for 40.
Go on.
Oh, come on.
50 because it's you.
50, what do you think?
I mean what would a brand new silver frame cost you if you bought it in the shop.
If that was new in a shop that would be 240 pounds.
So we're buying a piece of history.
I think that's probably a good idea.
- What do you think?
- Yeah.
Yeah.
40 pounds?
Oh God.
Thank you.
Thank you.
You're a star.
Thank you very much.
NARRATOR: So that's deal done and shopping complete for Jenni and Christina who has spent a total of 172 pounds bagging themselves five items.
Oona, on the other hand, is far from finished and is making her way to Hackney in East London with David.
I know that you ran for mayor once, so did you?
I ran to be the labor candidate for mayor.
Yeah, that's right.
Wow.
I said vote for me and I will give you all low quality cost antiques.
And it just didn't work out.
The public weren't interested.
Would you do it again?
In the future maybe, not this time around, I've got too many children crawling all over me.
NARRATOR: It's the first shop of the day Sanderson Sweeting Antiques.
Good morning.
Hello, hi, I'm Oona.
Nice to meet you.
I'm Tim.
Tim, David Harper, nice to meet you.
Hi, there.
And the crocodile-- And the crocodile.
Hanging upside down from the ceiling.
Excellent.
NARRATOR: Nice croc spot there but Oona's here to snap up a bargain.
Well, if we're going to get down to business here so I'm really serious.
NARRATOR: Crikey.
Jacket off, then.
What have you got that we can buy cheaply and sell at a good price?
Just like that-- Oh, just go for it, Oona.
Just go for it.
Not really words I want to hear, is it?
How about-- We've got about 10p by the way.
Just so you know our price range.
How about you leave now?
No, no, no.
NARRATOR: So how is the Baroness shaping up as a road tripper, David?
Oona is brilliant because she's used to making instant decisions and moving on.
She's a decision maker, isn't she?
I think David and I are a good team because he's got the expertise.
And I've got the joie de shopping, so it works well.
NARRATOR: Well the proof will be in the buying.
Anything on there?
I quite like that table.
I've got to say I like the shape of it, deco, isn't it?
Continental probably.
Yeah, well what is it?
It's an oak.
If you look at the gray.
- Yeah, it's pretty.
- Grainy.
- Yeah.
- Yeah, it's a beautiful table.
I do like the table.
Yeah, it's a good shape, isn't it?
Do you agree it's kind of 1930s, isn't it?
Classic Deco, classic early Deco.
What sort of money is that?
[INAUDIBLE] 15 pounds, 10 pounds?
30.
He is not very good, is he?
What?
You mean, he's trying to earn a living.
I am trying to earn a living.
Trying to keep a roof over his head.
We're not helping, are we?
If you keep changing that, Tim, could it be the 10 pounds note?
It could be 15 quid.
- OK. - Wow.
Well, that's, I like that.
That is my zone.
I like that zone.
15 pounds, that's the zone I want to be in.
This is our tactic today, isn't it?
Yeah, we like that.
Can I shake on that?
Yeah, go on.
Have we got, have we bought that, have we?
- Yeah.
- Have we?
We've done it.
All right, we've done it.
OK. - Yeah.
Very bizarre.
NARRATOR: Come on, David, keep up.
Just come on.
See what I mean about decision making.
[INTERPOSING VOICES] NARRATOR: Yes, indeed.
So that's the 1930s Art Deco table for 15 pounds.
With their shopping completed, Jenni and Christina are taking some time out for a trip to Ilford.
I would like to apologize for the last 24 hours.
I haven't curtsied you once.
Don't be silly.
I feel like I should be bowing.
And you've just been calling me Jenni, I mean you haven't been calling me Dame Jenni for heaven sake.
I'm so sorry.
So sorry, please forgive me.
Do you ever-- do you ever use it?
It's very useful if you want to go to a bar or restaurant.
[LAUGHS] And I don't ring myself.
Well I do but I pretend I'm not myself.
[LAUGHS] I phone up and I say, hello, I'm calling you on behalf of Dame Jenni Murray.
[LAUGHTER] I put on this slightly high pitched voice.
Oh, brilliant.
And-- and it's very good for getting a table.
Getting a table.
NARRATOR: Tap, tap.
What would the Queen say?
Dame Jenni and Christina have come to the People's Dispensary for sick animals visitors center in Ilford.
Close to our doggy mad Dame's heart, this is one of the UK's first animal charities.
And telling them all about its history is senior vet Elaine.
I'm Christina Hi.
Lovely to meet you.
NARRATOR: During the First World War, poverty is rife and animals often more than just pets played a big part in families livelihoods.
In 1917, one woman decided to create a charity to provide care for sick and injured animals for those unable to pay vet's bills.
And so the PDSA was born all thanks to animal welfare pioneer Maria Dickin.
So this formidable woman-- Yes.
--was Maria Dickin.
Yes.
What was her background?
Well, what happened was she did some voluntary work around the East end and she saw this terrible state of the animals there because obviously the poverty that was in those days, you couldn't really imagine nowadays I don't think.
And so she saw that the animals were in extreme distress and had diseases and things like that, broken legs that won't being treated.
But also the people were upset as well.
So it's sort of she was trying to help the pets and the people, you know, as we all know animals mean so much to their owners.
And that's what she was doing.
She was helping that.
And she started it all up.
And when she opened up her first place in Whitechapel, there was the prediction, Oh, this isn't going to work, that kind of thing.
And the crowds, they had to actually get a policeman to control the crowds of people who are desperate to get their pets treated.
And also these caravans went around the country treating pets as they went around.
And there she is sitting on one of her caravans there.
NARRATOR: Fast approaching it's centenary, the charity treats more than 470,000 pets every year providing over 2.3 million treatments, and employing 1,000 vets and nurses all helping to deliver Maria's vision, a healthy life for all our pets.
Incredible.
And we've got her book The Cry of The Animal.
She says, at that time my own little dog became seriously ill and died.
Only those who loved their animal and have-- oh, god.
It's going to make me cry.
[LAUGHTER] Only those who love their animal and have nursed it when sick or injured will understand the misery I went through to see that little dog look up to me for help.
And also, I believe, asking why I of all people should allow her to endure her pain was heart rending.
It's terrible, isn't it?
You've gone as well.
I know.
But I mean she must have been absolutely astronomical to do all this.
When you think really 1917, you know nothing.
And now we've got 51 pet aid hospitals around the country.
We're helping millions of people, you know, all the time really.
So it's fantastic.
It is fantastic.
And I think it's really quite inspiring, is it, that she was a woman.
Yes.
And she saw-- she saw a need.
And we quite good at that, we see needs and we want to do something about it.
Yes, Yes.
And those are the principles that the PDSA was built on and still maintaining that to this day.
Yes.
NARRATOR: Inspired by the incredible bravery displayed by many animals in active service and on the home front during the Second World War, Maria Dickin instituted the PDSA Dickin medal in 1943.
It is the highest award an animal can achieve while serving in military conflict, and is known internationally as the animals Victoria Cross.
PDSA's Dickin medal is, for me, incredibly moving.
You know, I look at it and I think these animals worked with people to help others.
We don't give it easily.
Now for instance with Beauty Barnett, that one saved 63 animals in the blitz in London.
I mean the photo sums it all up to me.
She was the one who went sniffed out where there were animals under bombed out buildings.
Yes, that's right.
And that's the actual collar there.
You know, she's the PDSA pioneer.
I mean, it's lovely isn't it?
- And she's buried here, is she?
- Yes.
Yes.
NARRATOR: The Ilford animal cemetery is the final resting place of more than 3,000 pets, including 12 animal heroes from World War two that were awarded the Dickin medal.
How does an animal qualify?
We don't do any burials anymore.
So the last one was about the 1970s really.
But it was started off just really through, in the 1920s, one of the vets who worked here felt sorry for someone and actually buried the animal in this territory.
And it just sort of grew from there on really.
NARRATOR: Before they get back on the road two past patients have turned up with their own arena for a visit.
Dame Jenni, meat Diva and Armani.
Hello.
Oh, you are lovely.
You are in your element, aren't you?
Yeah.
Totally.
Totally in my element.
Oh, you're very sweet little dogs.
I think it's a good job we finished it all our buying, otherwise I'd never get you out of here.
You know me if I see a dog I have to buy it.
Thank you PDSA.
Love you.
NARRATOR: While, Jenni continues petting pooches, Oona and David are still not finished shopping, so are heading to Stoke Newington hoping to uncover something special to take to auction.
If they make it there that is, oops.
Yes, come on.
Well done.
Really?
Oh my gosh, have you broken it?
You've broken the car.
You're not supposed to break the car.
Did you see the smoke?
I can.
Something dramatically went wrong there.
Really?
- I lost all power.
- Really?
Yeah.
NARRATOR: That'll be the lack of petrol, David.
And you stopped on a double yellow line.
A bit of pushing.
Oh.
Oh my gosh.
That's very embarrassing.
Are you ready?
Yeah, I'm ready.
Come on Baroness.
You can do it.
Oh.
Oh my God.
You know, me sandals are a bit sweaty for this.
Jeez.
OK, middle of London pushing a Spitfire with a Baroness.
My life is complete.
Just run over my foot, seriously.
Did you really?
Bit of my toe.
[LAUGHS] Right.
Come on, Baroness.
[INAUDIBLE] We're ready, come one.
You pushed a car.
Let's go buy some antiques.
Yeah, I thought it was a road trip.
I didn't realise it was a walking trip.
NARRATOR: Don't worry you don't have too far to walk to get to the shop.
Oh, look there it is.
It's like we've been across the Serengeti.
It's good exercise.
We've been walking for days.
Thinking-- positive thinking.
NARRATOR: Oh, dear, not the best of starts.
Let's hope things improve inside.
- Hi there, David Harper.
- Hello, I'm Carole.
Really nice to meet you.
- Hello, Carole.
Hello, Oona.
Hello.
NARRATOR: Selling an eclectic mix of vintage goodies, retro furniture, and curios, The Cobble Yard should hold something to bowl over the Baroness.
We're a team, aren't we, David?
- We're a team.
- We're a team.
- We're a team - So we're a team.
We're hanging on.
It's being pulled apart a bit at the moment but we're clinging on.
The stress is building.
Because I want us to find something in here.
I know.
I know.
NARRATOR: And just at that.
Hang on what about this?
If that's plastic it's no good.
Oh no.
That's in-- that's in our-- that's our price range, a tenner.
[LAUGHS] It certainly is, what on Earth is it?
But it's got a hole at the bottom so you couldn't even put anything in it.
It's been something.
It's been attached to something.
It's must have been a lamp thing with it.
But look at it stone.
It's some kind of alabaster.
Oh, whacking crack through it.
Whacking crack.
But it's got a look probably for 1930s, might hang that way.
It's been attached to something.
But you could convert it into maybe a candle holder.
Put a candle in and light it.
You get all of these veins illuminating.
It would look good.
It's an interior design piece.
What do you think it's selling for?
- Look-- - 15 if you lucky.
Yeah.
Well, what's-- it's got that.
It is stone, isn't it?
OK. Let me show you something, there's loads of scratches there.
So we want to determine what it is, whether it's a hard stone or a softer stone so that you take a coin.
I'm not going to do any damage, am I?
Am I?
I don't know.
Oh, my god, you vandal.
That's outrageous.
NARRATOR: That'll be soften alabaster I reckon.
Put a bit of spit in there and now she can't see.
Hi, Carole.
That's diabolical.
No, just testing.
He's just-- I'm just testing what it is.
Did you damage my-- No.
I think he might have-- No, Carole, what I've done, I've added character to it.
Yeah.
NARRATOR: I'll believe you, David.
[INAUDIBLE] wouldn't.
Is that going to sell in an auction.
It's going to sell because-- For what then?
It can sell for a pound or 20.
For goodness sake, for a 10 pound note, you put that on your windowsill with natural light coming through, it's going to look pretty good actually.
Yeah but a 10 pounds note doesn't work for us.
No.
What would work for us is a 5 pound?
Would a 5 pound not work?
We're a disgrace.
I'm just ashamed actually frankly to be here.
We're wasting Carole's time.
No we clearly are wasting your time.
Can you sell that to us for a fiver?
Let's have a look.
It has got a lot of damage.
Shameless.
And look at the big scratch on the bottom Carole, it's terrible.
This crack all the way down there and that all the way up there.
OK, I think that's worthy of a discount there.
OK, 5 pounds it is.
Oh, thank you.
NARRATOR: So we've got to have serious brass neck in this business and Oona fits right in.
So that's the alabaster urn bagged for 5 pounds.
Final lot bought then, it's time for the teams to meet up and check out the competition.
OK, can we go first?
- Yeah, you go first.
- Ready?
Steady.
Steady.
Ta-da!
So what we have is an Art-- Oh, you bought the minnow thing.
I didn't see.
You did buy that.
- Yes.
Yes.
I've got to say, that is probably the sweetest object I've seen for a very long time.
Oh, that is lovely.
120 for the Asprey.
And the bottle?
The bottle is a piece of advertising work.
'Cause it empty.
It's never had anything in it.
1988.
Yes.
It's almost as antique as something we bought.
Do people collect that kind of thing?
They do.
They do.
Is the table yours, as well?
Yes, Art Deco.
Oh.
I thought it was from the bar.
[LAUGHTER] Oh, thanks.
Nice table, how much?
It's quite classy here it One Stud Golf club.
Let's test you here.
So that's art deco, 1930, oak with a Rosewood shelf.
50 quid.
I'd say 25 pounds.
- OK. - 15.
- There you go.
- 15.
Oh cheap.
That was good.
NARRATOR: Inexpensive, Jenni.
And then our coup de Gras.
Our coup de Gras.
Yeah, this is where it's at, I mean-- Is it alabaster?
Yes, it is.
I admit you're not going to be able to put plants in it.
It's got a hole in the bottom.
Yeah.
It's very beautiful.
It's probably been something else at some point.
It's like you'd expect to have a screw in the bottom.
NARRATOR: Yeah, now it's Jenni's turn.
Let's be careful because we don't want to knock anything over.
Wow.
Oh.
I'm really hoping that's not a period piece.
Well, it is.
Is it really?
Is it spelta?
It's ivoirien And I think some sort of a bit unfortunately she is beautiful but she has had a little bit of damage.
What do you think we would have paid for that, David?
Spelta and ivoirien damaged, 60.
We paid 75 for her.
Lovely.
This is rather special.
Does this come this or is this another?
Yes.
Yes, perfect box.
It's not strictly speaking antique but it is from Concorde.
Yes, yes hallmark silver.
Its hallmark silver and it's pristine.
Right.
And I think frankly the less said about the bus the better.
Shall we just brush over that?
No.
Really?
You seriously want to talk about it.
OK, Jenni, let's talk about the bus.
- Well, it's a good mix.
- Well done, everybody.
- So there we are.
- It's a good mix.
Well done.
- It's very eclectic.
- It really is.
It would be fascinating to see what happens.
Well done.
Right, all we have to do that it's face the auction.
Absolutely.
Come on, head off this way.
All right.
NARRATOR: But before that what do our honorable competitors really think.
Now you've seen them.
Well I think the Asprey message said is beautiful.
But I think they paid a lot of money for it.
I don't think it'll do very well at all.
NARRATOR: I'm sure Oona wouldn't laugh.
Oh, the bus?
Come on.
It's a London bus.
No, that is, that's nonsense.
I think we've definitely got a much better selection.
And even if we lose on the money thing, we can comfort ourselves with the thought that we have better taste.
Don't you think?
They might be listening.
But overall, I think we should be happier than they are.
Yeah, I think we should both be quite unhappy.
Come on, I'm taking you bar.
OK, all right.
Yeah, that'll make me happier.
NARRATOR: No time for a tipple, I'm afraid as well all off to the auction.
Our team's trip has taken them to various pit stops in North and East London.
And now they're heading South to Kent for the big finale.
I do not hold out very high hopes for my purchases, which is a shame.
But I'm really shocked.
I thought I was going to be really good at this buying lark.
In real life, I'm a thwarted buyer.
I never have time to go shopping and I just thought I was going to do so well.
But I think I've blown it.
Well, we will see very shortly.
Yes, indeed.
Whether we make good purchases, or not.
NARRATOR: The auction today is taking place in the seaside town of Sheerness on the island of Sheppey.
There are some locals who like to call themselves swampies.
But as the term began life as an insult, let's be careful who you say it to.
- Here she comes.
- Oh, wow.
I love that car.
So do I.
Mind your feet.
Mind your feet.
I didn't think you trust us, do you?
Good morning.
Good morning.
You two look very good.
NARRATOR: The teams have finally arrived at Frederick Andrews auctioneers, where founder, Michael Walkley, will today be presiding.
But before the gavel goes down, what does he think of our two teams lots.
There's some lovely pieces in there and some not so nice pieces I'm afraid.
The champagne bottle that's empty, I'm not quite sure who want one of those that hasn't got anything in it.
And the alabaster vase with a hole in the bottom is a little bit difficult to sell.
But you on the flip side, we do have the lovely Asprey notepad and pen.
That's obviously a silver one and I think that will do particularly well.
And a Concord frame should do OK. NARRATOR: Dame Jenni and Christina began the road trip with 400 pounds and spent 172 pounds on five lots while Baroness King and David spent 191 pounds and they too have a total of 5 lots.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Here we are.
Oh, I see.
It looks like I've got the plastic chair, does it?
Yeah but you won't sink.
Oh, Hello.
Sinking sofas.
It's jolly comfy, isn't it?
Well, this isn't comfy.
It feels like I'm at school.
We'd certainly getting a lesson today on how to lose money.
And you can sense it coming, can't you, Oona?
I sense it.
I sense it.
NARRATOR: Kicking things off is the first item we saw Oona fall for, the 1980s silver and glass pendant.
This is the one.
Sorry, did i say that, did I say that too loud?
A number.
Oh, no one's bidding anything.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] 18 is bid.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] So we only lost 3 pounds.
That wasn't bad.
3 pound lost.
NARRATOR: A high five for a loss, that's a first.
But it's only the start.
Lots of lots still to come.
3 pounds down after the first.
So anxiety inducing.
Are you nervous?
Yeah.
I wasn't, and now I am.
No.
NARRATOR: Well our Dame may have good reason to feel a little fluttery because up next is her impulse buy the London transport route master bus from the great British bus series set on a plinth of course.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] I don't know why I'm celebrating.
Oh, Jenni.
Well done.
[INTERPOSING VOICES] [LAUGHS] That was amazing.
NARRATOR: A crowd pleasing profit there for Jenni's mass molded made in China novelty buy.
Nice.
That's over 100% profit.
Do not mock the crackers.
Thank you, Auntie Mary.
I seriously think if we bought five things with 2 pounds we would have fine.
NARRATOR: Oona's up again this time with the advertising champagne bottle.
Unfortunately, it is empty but there it is there is.
It was meant to be.
Advertising champagne bottle.
There it is there.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Beautiful.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] It so lovely piece.
10 pounds for it somewhere.
Who wants that for a tenner?
Go on.
Anybody for 8 pounds?
Somebody must want it.
Show a bit of pity.
8.
I've got 9 where?
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Oona, do you have the power to imprison them?
NARRATOR: Oh, clearly the boozy buyers won't in the room today.
I think Oona may need a stiff drink herself after this.
Oh dear.
Oh, even my pen has stopped working.
NARRATOR: It's a spot of silver next as it's Jenni's arts and crafts semi-precious stone set brooch.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Come on it's beautiful.
It's a lovely piece.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Come on, it's worth so much more.
It is worth a lot, lot more.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Oh no.
Oh, I was 2 pounds out.
Be grateful, rejoice.
You good actually.
NARRATOR: How about Jenni, at least you loved it.
Well somebody has got herself a lovely brooch for next to nothing.
Exactly.
Which breaks my heart.
Lucky lady.
NARRATOR: Oona needs to do well with this next lot.
It's her art deco oak and rosewood 1930s occasional table.
- Occasional table.
- Oh, here we are.
We're on.
We're on.
We're on.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Art Deco.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Come on, let's you get your hand up.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Oh, thank you.
Thank you very much.
Thank you very much.
It's a lovely table.
It is a lovely table.
NARRATOR: I think that geeing up the crowd there certainly helped them break even.
Minus a little bit of commission.
Oh yeah, the commission.
Yeah, I know.
I know.
I know.
NARRATOR: Can Jenni do as well with her next item?
Bought from the heart, not the head, the restored Art Deco style figurine.
The Art Deco style exotic dancing figure on the onyx base.
What do you mean Art Deco style?
This is Art Deco The onyx based Deco style bronze there we are showing that.
It's not styled.
It is Art Deco [AUCTIONEER CHANT] NARRATOR: Sorry, it is style.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Come on, she's really Art Deco.
Who wants her at 70?
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] She's worth a fortune.
50, I've got.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] She's really worth a lot of money.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Oh he's working hard for us.
He's working really hard.
That is very good.
And you only lost 25 quid.
That is very good.
That's incredible.
No.
NARRATOR: Jenni may have loved her but she hasn't proved too popular with the people of Sheerness.
Oona's penultimate lot is up next.
It's her big bargain, the mid 20th century alabaster urn.
10 pounds for that somewhere.
10 pound.
What do I say?
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Come on.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Go on.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] I'm the king.
Oh.
Yeah baby.
That is amazing.
NARRATOR: What an amazing profit there for Oona things are looking up.
Can Jenni's Chinese silver miniature oxen and cart figurine do as well?
30 pounds for that somewhere.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] - Come on.
- [AUCTIONEER CHANT] Oh, you've got a bid.
Lady at 15.
18, where?
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] He's trying.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Great result.
Well done.
We made a profit.
NARRATOR: Finally another profit for our downhearted Dame.
Well done, Jenni.
Just to make us feel more comfortable, we won't discuss commissions.
NARRATOR: Time for Oona's final a lot.
And it's the biggie, David's personal favorite, the silver Asprey of London desk notebook and pen.
- Yeah.
- Why did you but it?
Quite a long way.
Because we loved it.
And that was it.
And I think that's a good enough reason to buy anything.
And we're on now.
Hold on to your seat misses.
Silver Asprey of London notepad and pen.
Asprey.
Asprey, come on you people know about this.
Notepad, the desk notepad and pen, there we are.
Hope you're all paying attention there.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Come on, you don't know how precious it is.
Oh.
All right, we'll take that.
Well done, see.
All right.
My goodness me we got out of that.
Because-- We got out of that.
We made zero.
And we're very happy.
Very happy.
Well done.
Well done.
NARRATOR: Cool.
David's got to be relieved with that result, breaking even with their final item.
Time for the last lot.
Jenni's silver Concord frame.
Only a profit here will give her a chance of winning.
This is the final moment.
The grand finale.
This is a big finale.
Yeah.
This is where the we win or you win.
Who wants that one there.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Come on.
Come on.
[AUCTIONEER CHANT] Keep going, it's worth a lot.
Keep going.
AUCTIONEER: Yours, sir.
Wow.
Well done, guys.
You made a profit on that.
That's just fine.
We made the profit.
And you lost the game.
And we lost the game.
NARRATOR: A fine profit there of 5 pounds for Jenni.
So auction over.
It's time to find out who the winners are.
Jenni and Christina started with 400 pounds.
And unfortunately, after auction costs, they actually made a loss of 58 pounds 84p.
So they end the trip with 341 pounds and 16p.
Oona and David also started with 400 pounds.
And they too made a loss of 39 pounds and 30p which means they finish with 360 pounds and 70p.
So as they lost the least, they're crowned today's winners.
Really, really great journey.
Thanks Oona.
Really good.
Thanks.
We really enjoyed it.
Thank you both.
Sorry about Christina and everything.
But other than that it's been great.
Yeah.
Well I say.
Bye.
[INTERPOSING VOICES] Bye-bye.
Oh, my gosh.
NARRATOR: And so our ladies leave the road trip filled with happy memories of their journey.
So who'd have thought you'd have ended up pushing the car.
I.
Know That really was not what I envisaged.
Oona King.
But it's better than the Dame having to push it, isn't it Jenni?
Shoving the car.
Oh, a Dame and a Baroness.
We'll be pushing this one any minute.
NARRATOR: Bon voyage, girls.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
