Sian Williams and Carol Kirkwood
Season 4 Episode 15 | 58m 50sVideo has Closed Captions
TV legends Sian Williams and Carol Kirkwood travel through Essex.
It’s a battle between TV legends Sian Williams and Carol Kirkwood as they travel through Essex and head for an auction in the Cotswolds. Along the way, Sian visits the oldest wooden church in the world and Carol hears about the heroic lives of World War I pilots -- the pioneers of flight.
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
Sian Williams and Carol Kirkwood
Season 4 Episode 15 | 58m 50sVideo has Closed Captions
It’s a battle between TV legends Sian Williams and Carol Kirkwood as they travel through Essex and head for an auction in the Cotswolds. Along the way, Sian visits the oldest wooden church in the world and Carol hears about the heroic lives of World War I pilots -- the pioneers of flight.
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
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Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship[MUSIC PLAYING] TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The nation's favorite celebrities-- We are special, Len, are we?
Oh, that's excellent.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): --paired up with an expert-- We're a very good team, you and me.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): --and a classic car.
Their mission?
To scour Britain for antiques.
I have no idea what it is.
Oh, I love it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The aim?
To make the biggest profit at auction.
Yes!
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): But it's no easy ride.
[GASPS] There's no accounting for taste.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Who will find a hidden gem?
Who will take the biggest risks?
Will anybody follow expert advice?
Do you like them?
No.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): There will be worthy winners and valiant losers.
- Are you happy?
- Yes.
- Promise?
- Ecstatic.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Time to put your pedal to the metal.
This is "Celebrity Antiques Road Trip."
Yeah.
[MUSIC PLAYING] In today's headlines, it's the battle of the broadcasters with TV legends Sian Williams and Carol Kirkwood.
SIAN WILLIAMS: We go back a long way, don't we?
CAROL KIRKWOOD: We do.
SIAN WILLIAMS: What is it?
I don't know.
- Golly.
15 years.
Longer?
It must-- it must be longer.
Yeah.
Because I joined the BBC now, what, 18 years ago and went on to Breakfast 17 years ago.
I was there for 11 years, so yeah.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Our celebrity gal pals will be on the front line of the antiques trail.
Armed with 400 pounds each to spend the forecast is looking great.
In a career spanning over 30 years, Sian is best known as a news journalist, and for over a decade was the face everyone wanted to wake up to on BBC Breakfast.
I find antique shops quite intimidating actually because I don't know what I should be looking for.
I don't know what I should be paying for the things that I quite like that I don't know whether they're antiques or not.
It all seems quite overwhelming.
I mean, in the end, you'll go for something that you like.
There's no point buying something that you think is going to sell if you don't like it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): But at least she's in good company.
Beside her in the passenger seat is fellow broadcasting veteran and everyone's favorite weather girl Carol Kirkwood.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: What I really would like to look for would be blingy things, you know?
Sparkly things, glamorous things.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Yeah.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Like I love chandeliers like you see in Versailles.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Hmm, how much money does she think she has to spend?
That said, two such classy girls deserve a classy car-- a 1989 Jaguar XJS to be precise.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: This reminds me a bit of that bridge Bridget Jones movie.
The sun is out.
You and me in the countryside in an open top car.
All we need is Hugh Grant and Colin Firth.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sorry to disappoint, girls.
Today's expert auctioneers, Charlie Ross and Charlie Hanson, are lovable but not quite romcom material.
They are, however, extremely excited about meeting their leading ladies.
I think a cheery smile, a great warmth.
That warmth-- that warm front is here today, Charlie.
A number of times I've woken up to Sian and Carol.
She's a headliner.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Easy, tiger.
Try to keep your minds on the competition here, fellas.
I don't think I've ever beaten you.
Do you know what, I think that's-- - Have I ever beaten you?
- No, you never have.
- Look at me.
- No, you never have.
Have I ever beaten you?
In four years of road tripping I have never lost to my elder statesman.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Who will emerge victorious remains to be seen.
All that's certain for now is the 1974 Triumph they're driving.
Today's journey commences in the picturesque village of Battlesbridge.
On this Antiques Road Trip we're traveling through Essex before ending up at an auction in Cirencester in the Cotswolds.
Oh, it's Charlie!
And Charles!
And Charles!
Hello.
Hi.
That's it, Charlie.
Just guide them in.
Great work, sir.
CHARLIE ROSS: Come towards me, Sian.
Come to me, Sian.
SIAN WILLIAMS: There is a post in the way.
CHARLES HANSON: It's nice to meet you.
CHARLIE ROSS: Brilliant.
CHARLES HANSON: How are you?
You OK?
CHARLIE ROSS: Now, Carol, I'm going to-- SIAN WILLIAMS: It's such a beautiful day.
--be practising my Scottish accent.
Oh no.
I'm going to attempt to go with Carol, then she can be really cross with me when I try to say, hello, Carol.
Anyway.
So-- Oh, Charlie Ross, I'm Sorry I knew it wouldn't-- Carol, come back again.
Come on.
Let's go shopping.
CHARLES HANSON: Sian.
Well, you know, we'll be the cooler pairing I think.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): There's a first time for everything, Charles.
With 400 pounds burning a hole in both teams' pockets, it's full speed ahead.
CHARLIE ROSS: Right, Carol.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Ooh, you walk fast.
CHARLIE ROSS: Shopping at speed.
I do walk fast.
Up the stairs.
Right to the top of the building.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The first shop, Battlesbridge Antique Center, has a wealth of wares.
But what's the game plan?
CHARLIE ROSS: Now, Carol, when you woke up this morning and you thought, I'm going to be buying antiques, what was it you were thinking you want to buy?
Sparkly things I think.
Sparkly girl.
And different things as well.
Yeah.
Not your run of the mill.
I don't want to go home with a big pile of furniture.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Does rival Sian have such clear ideas about what she wants?
SIAN WILLIAMS: Modern.
Yeah, OK.
I quite like a more modern feel.
- Yeah, yeah.
- Sort of Art Deco-y.
[MUSIC PLAYING] TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Tactics agreed, next on the boys agenda-- to woo their leading ladies with some smooth lines.
Like you it has great style.
Thank you.
That's an oil painting.
That's a wonderful picture.
That's one of the nicest oil paintings I've ever seen.
Oh, you're bonkers, Charlie.
Come on.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Lucky we're in an antique shop, Charlie.
I think that line's circa 1950.
But no silver tongue will distract these girls from what they want.
Rustic farmhouse furniture.
Not particularly-- A bit of Welsh gold.
[LAUGHS] No?
All right.
I better get moving.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Come on, Charles.
You're going to have to do better than that to impress your celebrity.
CHARLES HANSON: Sian, I'm looking at those two ladies over there.
Aren't they attractive?
Do you like them?
No.
No?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Hmm, I wonder why.
SIAN WILLIAMS: I don't think I'm going to be buying a statue of a woman wearing stockings and suspenders if it's all right with you.
Should we try-- Yeah, OK. On that note, it's a shame.
SIAN WILLIAMS: I'll leave you with that one.
CHARLIE ROSS: It's a shame.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): One to remember there, Carlos.
Upstairs, Carol's after glitz and glamour.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Ooh, look at this, Charlie.
Ooh-- - Yeah.
--is it a commode?
Carol, that is not a commode.
It's a hall seat with a storage compartment.
Oops.
I feel a right clot now.
No, no.
Don't feel a clot.
I mean, you could use it as a commode.
I mean, it is quite commodious.
Let's go, Charlie.
Come on.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Nice try though, Carol.
Downstairs, could Sian and Charles finally see eye to eye?
SIAN WILLIAMS: Look at that.
Isn't that sweet!
Oh, that's lovely.
Now you've hit it on the head here.
SIAN WILLIAMS: That's lovely.
I like these.
CHARLES HANSON: They're really nice.
And they are made by a very good factory called Shelley, and Shelley were a really important 1920s glaze factory who evolved a certain glaze design which reflects the Art Deco.
I love it.
And they're really nice.
Would that be a good thing to buy?
Maybe we could-- we could even do a deal.
We could even perhaps buy a little sample and put as one lot as a little-- Well, how do you do that?
Well, we could like buy a jug and buy the posy holder and buy a vase, put the three bits together-- SIAN WILLIAMS: Yes.
CHARLES HANSON: --for one price only.
It's what they call doing a deal in the antiques business.
Do they?
CHARLES HANSON: Yeah.
What collectors don't like is see flaking or maybe scratch marks where something has rubbed against it.
But to me, the rim's in good condition.
Looks all right, doesn't it?
CHARLES HANSON: Oh yeah.
It reads, From Snowdon.
Wales.
It's meant to be.
It's meant to be.
It's coming home to an auction.
I don't believe it.
Oh, how lovely.
So that is almost now a must-buy, isn't it?
That is a must-buy.
Oh dear.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Yeah.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): So possible pottery for Sian and Charles.
Perhaps some retro techno for their rivals.
Ooh gosh, look these computers.
I remember them when they were first out.
- You can't.
- No, you're right.
I don't.
That was a big fat lie.
I don't remember.
That's a mistake.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Oh, Carol.
But finally they stumbled across something they can both get excited about.
Look at the books.
What do you think of them, Charlie?
Oh, lovely.
I like early books.
"Jackanapes" by Juliana Horatio Ewing with illustrations by Randolph Caldecott, famous illustrator.
Now they, I think, are rather fun.
Do you think we ought to have a look at those?
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Yes.
I think we should.
CHARLIE ROSS: I like those.
The surgeon cannoned against and rebounded from another officer, a sallow man, not young, with a face worn more by ungentle experiences than by age.
Oh, is that me?
CAROL KIRKWOOD: [LAUGHS] TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Well, I didn't want to say.
The other thing is, anything that's a first edition is quite sexy, isn't it?
I would say to you if you could buy these two books for say, five quid, I think you-- there's no downside.
You'll make a bit of profit and I think you're buying a little bit of history here, aren't you?
- Right.
- We like that.
- We like that.
- We like a bit of history.
Yes.
We like that.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Carol sounds keen.
But with no ticket she needs to talk to dealer Tara.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Tara, how much flex do you have in these?
TARA: Not as much as you would like me to.
CHARLIE ROSS: No, no.
But because I'd like you guys to win, the best-- very, very best-- CHARLIE ROSS: Yes.
Would be eight pound.
CHARLIE ROSS: For the two?
TARA: For the two.
That sounds good to me.
I mean, frankly-- Tara.
CHARLIE ROSS: Oh, she's done it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): A lightning deal from Carol.
Who could have forecast that?
Don't hang about, do you?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): That's a whole eight pounds spent on those two books leaving them with 392 pounds.
Meanwhile, Sian has finally found a Shelley vase and posy holder that she likes, but there's no ticket price.
OK. CHARLES HANSON: Thank you.
The two vases, 30 pound each.
CHARLES HANSON: How much?
30 pound each.
Posy dish, 20 pounds.
CHARLES HANSON: Oh, really?
Sorry.
Sorry.
VICKY: If you wanted the two, it'd 50 pound obviously for a vase and a posy dish.
So these two together would be 50.
VICKY: Yes.
Do you think it's-- is it worth talking to him?
Do you think he's prepared to-- to budge at all, or is he quite hard?
Um, no.
If you wanted to take them both, he could go to 45.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Could he?
VICKY: For the two, yes.
CHARLES HANSON: I would say the two together are pretty good at 45 pounds.
I prefer 40, but that's pushing it too far.
So 45 for those two together.
Yes.
Vicky, we'll shake your hand-- VICKY: OK. --and say, going, going-- shake her hand at 45 pound.
- OK. - Thank you.
- No worries.
- Thanks a lot.
We're really grateful.
- That's OK.
I think they're great.
I think they're lovely.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sian and Charles have splashed their cash on a Shelley Art Deco vase and pottery posy holder for 45 pounds, so their spending is well underway, which is more than can be said for Carol and Charlie.
- We've spent a fortune.
- We've spent a lot of money.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Have you?
- Yeah.
Carol has to buy everything she sees.
She's difficult.
He's a hopeless liar.
Hopeless.
Honestly.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sian's right because Carol and Charlie have yet to add to their 8 pound Victorian book purchase.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: I just haven't seen anything yet-- - No.
- --that I like that's of value.
No, no.
You will do.
Something will grab you.
I will hear a squeal like there's never been before and I will come running with my cash.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Oh.
But here's something Carol would love, a barometer.
If only she'd found it first.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Rises for fair or dry.
Falls for rain or storm.
Shall we have an ask and see how-- it's 45 pounds.
Is it worth-- what's it worth?
I like it.
I think if this was in a London retail store, it would be about 95 pounds.
And I've seen them on offer there at 95.
In an auction room I think it's worth between 30 and 50.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): But what's it worth to dealer Vicky?
SIAN WILLIAMS: Hello, Vicky.
VICKY: Hello.
SIAN WILLIAMS: I'm looking at this and thinking, I don't even know whether it works.
VICKY: OK. Do you know-- can you tell whether it works?
VICKY: To be honest, no.
- No.
Sorry.
SIAN WILLIAMS: OK, so how much-- how much should we pay you for a barometer that might work and it might not?
OK, how much do we have on it?
SIAN WILLIAMS: We've got 45.
VICKY: 45.
Absolute best would be 35.
I like it because it's got a really good look about it and it is Deco.
30?
VICKY: Um-- SIAN WILLIAMS: Yes is the word you're looking for.
OK, go on then.
Yes.
- All right.
Take a chance.
Take a chance.
- Take a chance.
- Take a chance.
We're going to go-- we're going to go with it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sian takes a chance, adding the barometer to the Shelley vase and posy holder, meaning she has now spent a total of 75 pounds.
Thanks a lot.
We've enjoyed it.
VICKY: No problem.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Nice to see you.
CHARLES HANSON: The car awaits.
VICKY: Bye bye.
CHARLES HANSON: Bye bye.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Carol and Charlie also bid adieu to Battlesbridge and hit the road.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: And don't spare the horses.
CHARLIE ROSS: I won't.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Woo-hoo!
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Giving Charlie the perfect opportunity to get to know his daredevil celebrity a little better.
The scariest thing I've ever done was hang gliding, and that was for a program about the weather.
No.
Yeah, it was really scary.
We were going up with the intention of scooping some cloud into a jar and measuring the weight of the cloud.
It was terrifying.
We were about five miles high in the sky.
Five miles scooping clouds.
But not much between us and eternity.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): In keeping with her passion for heights, Carol and Charlie are off to Stow Marie's Aerodrome, a place that tells the story of the young men who fearlessly defended our country, and for the first time, the skies during World War One.
CHARLIE ROSS: Gosh.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Nice.
CHARLIE ROSS: Half close your eyes and imagine yourself in 1917.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Gosh.
CHARLIE ROSS: And I'm just taking you to your plane.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): In 1915, with World War One in full swing in the trenches, the Germans brought the war to the skies in the form of giant Zeppelin airships.
They were originally used on reconnaissance missions until January 1915 when they first attacked Britain.
Sadly, this airborne assault was the first of many, and Stow Marie's opened the following year.
Carol and Charlie are meeting curator Ivor.
IVOR DALLINGER: Welcome to the museum.
CHARLIE ROSS: Thank you.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Thank you IVOR DALLINGER: We were one of three aerodromes that were set up in 1916 that were used by 37 Home Defense Squadron Royal Flying Corps.
These are some of the aerodromes that were dotted around East Anglia at the time to defend the Northeastern approaches to London from the Zeppelin raids that plagued the country.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Such giant machines and bomb attacks had never been seen on British soil, terrorizing its inhabitants and claiming the lives of over 500 people.
IVOR DALLINGER: There was a huge outcry amongst the people, especially in the capital, that they felt they weren't defended.
CHARLIE ROSS: Right.
And to be honest, that was probably the truth at the time.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Aviation was still in its infancy and was an unknown world.
In response to these attacks, in tiny planes our young novice pilots took to the skies to take on the mighty Zeppelins.
IVOR DALLINGER: Well, our first B-flight commander here, Claude Ridley, had been to France.
He had won the military cross and the distinguished service order.
By the time he came here as a B-flight commander he was just six weeks short of his 20th birthday.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: 20?
CHARLIE ROSS: These guys were pioneers.
It was so dangerous.
They had nobody to teach them because every time they went up it was the first time somebody had done that.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Young pilots, sometimes with only hours of flying experience, took to the air.
Many didn't even make it past training.
50% of Royal Flying Corps casualties-- the whole Corps during the First World War-- were down to flying accidents and not combat.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Despite this, missions continued often with recruits learning on the job.
Sadly for many of these fighter pilot pioneers, life expectancy was short.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: That's the thing.
I can't begin to imagine how, say, an 18-year-old, you're going out on one of them, and knowing that you might not come back.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Over at the mess, World War I enthusiast Russell is waiting, not with a cup of tea but something far more useful for keeping warm at 10,000 feet.
Pick that up and just feel the weight of it, what these guys would have been wearing.
So you've got to think the flying-- I've never felt a garment-- They're incredibly heavy.
--of that weight.
- They're incredibly heavy.
- Gosh.
That is heavy.
So they're flying at sort of 10,000 and 12,000 feet, and this is the only thing that's going to keep them warm.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Wow.
- One for you, Carol.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Yes.
There we are.
A [INAUDIBLE] flying suit for you.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: May I put it on?
RUSSELL SAVORY: Yes.
This is going to be fun.
Do you think I'm-- CHARLIE ROSS: Come on, Carol.
For goodness sake.
The Zeppelin's halfway across the channel by now.
Come on.
How long is this program?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): This clothing along with goggles was all that protected the pilots in open cockpits.
CHARLIE ROSS: Carol, you look like a polar bear.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): [LAUGHS] We're a long way from the Arctic Circle, but Russell has one more treat in store.
That's a little piece of history frozen in time.
So, Russell, this is one of the planes that would actually have been used during World War One?
Yes, it's an S.E.5.
Typical type of aircraft that would have been flown from here.
This is a single-seater, so you won't be able to go for a fly, but at least you'll be able to experience the cockpit and how tight it is actually in there and the flight controls.
All right, yeah, it's going to be quite tricky.
OK.
Right.
RUSSELL SAVORY: See if we can-- that's it.
Like getting on a horse really.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Careful, Carol.
RUSSELL SAVORY: I've got you.
I've got you.
Push me into the plane.
That's it.
There we go.
CHARLIE ROSS: Carol, you're facing the wrong way, dear.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: That's it.
Oh, there's a mirror there as well.
RUSSELL SAVORY: Yeah, there is indeed.
That's for doing your makeup.
[LAUGHTER] So as you can see, Carol, it's fairly tight in there.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Yes.
RUSSELL SAVORY: Not a lot room.
Also not a lot of view.
Also you've got to be looking through the sight, which is in front of you.
And then above your head is a machine gun.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The plane might be small, but it could certainly pack a punch.
So what we have here-- if you just get hold of the joystick there we have a button on there, and if you give that a little-- push on it.
That's it.
Yeah, that's it.
And then you hopefully will get a little bit of a-- [GUN SHOTS] CHARLIE ROSS: Cor, blimey!
CAROL KIRKWOOD: I wasn't expecting that.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Neither was Charlie.
You all right, boy?
You can feel the plane shaking, can't you?
Very good.
Very good.
CHARLIE ROSS: You got him, Carol.
I can't imagine the fear though and actually having a target that you were aiming at when you fired the rifle.
RUSSELL SAVORY And don't forget, there's some coming back the other way.
So-- and in an aircraft that is basically wood and fabric, there's not much in the way of protection.
Them bullets would just go straight through.
This is making it much more real and actually appreciating what the pilots must have felt on a very minor level for me, but for them, they were so incredibly brave.
RUSSELL SAVORY: I think there's a lot known about the land warfare, but there's not that much known about, you know, the guys flying and the sacrifices they made, so it's so important for us and our museum, obviously, that these memories are kept alive.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): A harrowing account of just how brave our servicemen were during the First World War, conquering new technologies and the skies to save Britain from the enemy.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Oh, look at that.
CHARLIE ROSS: Oh.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: What control.
CHARLIE ROSS: Oh no.
No!
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Safely back on the ground, Sian and Charles are on their way to another shop.
CHARLES HANSON: I think you're a lady who likes glitz and glamour.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Oh do you think?
Yeah, so maybe we ought to buy some jewelry or maybe try and find some nice silver.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Yes.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): There traveling just under two miles to Rettendon in the borough of Chelmsford.
Our two broadcasters may be interested to know that this area played a vital role in the development of radio, and the world's first wireless factory was established here in 1898.
CHARLES HANSON: Here we go.
Best foot forward.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): With 325 pounds left from their original 400, Sian and Charles have plenty to spend on that perfect piece of glitz and glamour at FB Antiques.
- I'm Fred, how are you?
- Fred.
Very well.
Nice to meet you.
CHARLES HANSON: What we're looking for is maybe some jewelry or silver.
No.
Silver I don't have and I don't have jewelry, unfortunately.
[LAUGHTER] - Thanks for coming.
Yeah, right.
Well that's it.
- Thanks, Fred.
So-- Fred, what-- what do you mainly specialize in?
You mainly specialize in-- Mainly furniture.
CHARLES HANSON: OK. TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Mm, might want to rethink that plan then, Charles.
CHARLES HANSON: So it's going big.
It's going bold.
It's going masculine.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The only problem with big and bold is that it can be a tad on the pricey side.
CHARLES HANSON: How much is that?
SIAN WILLIAMS: Oh, stop it.
2,500 pounds.
2,500 pounds.
Look at that nice credenza.
Oh, that's 5,500 pounds.
5,500.
5,500 pounds.
Move away from the expensive items.
CHARLES HANSON: Going once, going twice, it's not sold today.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): In fact, it's not going at all well for Sian and Charles, and it's about to get worse.
Breaking news.
FRED: Sorry to disturb you, but it's raining and your car's open.
CHARLES HANSON: Is it really raining hard?
Well, it's raining and the interiors-- I'm sorry about that.
No, no.
That's both of our fault.
I'll go and-- Thank you very much.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Which raises the age old question, how many celebrities does it take to close the roof on a car?
Speed control.
Roof.
OK, have you got the keys?
Well, it says roof.
OK, mind you-- mind your hands.
Come to daddy.
[ENGINE STRUGGLING] It won't start now, Fred.
SIAN WILLIAMS: No, this happened before.
Hang on.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Well, don't just stand there, Charles.
[ENGINE STRUGGLING] SIAN WILLIAMS: Well done.
OK. Now press roof.
Hey!
Well done.
It's moving.
It's moving.
It's moving.
Mind your hat.
Mind your hat.
Mind your hat.
CHARLES HANSON: I'm sorry.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Thank goodness for that.
Disaster averted.
It's back to business.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Oh dear.
What I saw-- when we came out I saw this man here.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Charles has spotted a late 19th century carved Black Forest dancing bear clock.
They're pretty collectible but not to everyone's taste.
CHARLES HANSON: I love him.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Why?
CHARLES HANSON: You might say, Charles, look at the subject, it's not very nice.
SIAN WILLIAMS: It isn't very nice.
CHARLES HANSON: No.
SIAN WILLIAMS: And I feel sorry for the bear.
CHARLES HANSON: Yeah.
Which is tethered by a chain.
CHARLES HANSON: Yes.
It's a bit sad, isn't it?
You wouldn't want it, would you?
No.
But I'm thinking about what today-- Profit.
--is so popular.
And although the subject is sad-- look at that.
And that's the back.
That's gorgeous.
Wow.
That's the original movement dating to around 1880.
I think he's really good.
Do you know what he could make at auction?
SIAN WILLIAMS: No.
No idea.
CHARLES HANSON: It could make 100 pounds if the market isn't with it, but all day long it ought to make 250 to 300 pounds.
Let me find out what the price is.
Can I do that?
- Yes.
- With your consent.
- Yes.
Look at me.
Happy?
No.
CHARLES HANSON: Back in a sec.
SIAN WILLIAMS: OK.
I don't like it.
It makes me sad.
It makes me sad.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): And didn't you say you will only buy things you like, Sian?
Fred, if I ask you, what's the price?
The best I can do on it is 180.
Oh and ouch.
Ooh and ouch.
That sounds like a lot of money.
Fred, look at the lady.
Look at the bear.
It isn't a lot of money.
CHARLES HANSON: He's got a lovely color.
What's the very best, Fred?
The very best.
What we call the death.
160.
- Yeah.
- 160.
Yeah.
Let me free.
I was hoping to perhaps buy it somewhere around 120.
Look at me.
- I'll tell you what-- CHARLES HANSON: Mate, look at me.
I'll split it with you.
Yeah.
140.
CHARLES HANSON: We're going to buy him.
You happy?
SIAN WILLIAMS: Yep.
No.
We're going to gamble, to accumulate, to speculate, and give this bear freedom.
This is for you and for the profit.
Walk him out and I'll shake the man's hand.
We're going to walk him out.
Thank you very much.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sian's plan has gone out the window in favor of profit, so Charles hands over the 140 pounds leaving them with just 185 pounds left to spend.
What have you done?
What have you done?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): So with clearer skies and the top down again it's good night from me and it's good night from them.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Woo!
CHARLES HANSON: Sorry.
Sorry.
Sorry.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Sorry.
CHARLES HANSON: Sorry about that.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Sorry.
CHARLES HANSON: Sorry.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Uh-oh.
It's 8:00 AM and the weather today is clear and sunny and-- CAROL KIRKWOOD: And we're on the road.
Do you know, it's really nice driving this car on a decent road.
It's nice and smooth without all the potholes.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Yeah, it is.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Oh.
[LAUGHS] SIAN WILLIAMS: You're terrible.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Wrong one.
Sorry.
[LAUGHTER] Sorry about that, chaps.
Which one's the brake?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): It's that big flat thing under your foot, Carol.
Well, hopefully Charles and Charlie are a bit more in control.
Don't hold your breath though.
CHARLES HANSON: We had a great day yesterday, you know?
How'd you find Carol?
Seriously?
CHARLIE ROSS: Absolutely lovely.
And I think-- Charles, the same question to you.
Sian, Charlie, they-- they just have a-- They're so lovely.
--a lovely warm presence and-- People you want to be with.
CHARLES HANSON: Yeah.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Aw, how sweet.
Carol and Charlie are going to have to spend big today as they only spent 8 pounds on a pair of Victorian books yesterday.
That sounds good to me.
CHARLIE ROSS: I mean, frankly.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Charles and Sian, however, spent 215 pounds of their 400 pound budget coming home with a barometer, some Shelley vases, and a dancing bear clock.
Happy?
No.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Don't worry, Sian, you still have shopping ahead of you today.
CHARLIE ROSS: Good morning, ladies.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Good morning.
CHARLES HANSON: Good morning.
Mr. Ross, what's our plan today?
Uh, we're going shopping.
I'd like to buy something big.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Would you?
Like a wardrobe or a chest of drawers?
I like your style.
Do you know what, Charlie, I don't want to do that.
- You don't, do you?
- No.
What do you want to buy?
I want to buy bling.
She wants to buy something feminine.
CHARLES HANSON: The journey awaits, OK?
CHARLIE ROSS: Good luck.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Thank you.
You too.
CHARLIE ROSS: Have a lovely day.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): This morning, both couples are heading to Great Baddow, one of England's largest villages with over 13,000 inhabitants.
Like nearby Chelmsford, it also has a historical media link and was home to an important TV and radio research lab that opened in 1936.
Want to have a little sneak round here?
Yeah, very much so.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sian and Charles have 185 pounds left to spend, and where better than this large antiques emporium-- Baddow Antiques Center.
Charles.
CHARLES HANSON: Yes.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): And gosh, Sian's quick off the mark.
SIAN WILLIAMS: That's quite sweet.
CHARLES HANSON: Oh, that is nice.
Oh, that is nice.
Old Chinese.
Oh, that's really nice.
With a very nice, almost famille rose spray.
That's really nice.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): They both like the Chinese bowl then.
Yeah, mental note.
Mental note.
Mental note.
I quite like this Edwardian feather tray.
That's nice, yeah.
That's good.
It's a bit weird, isn't it?
It is, with the inlay as well.
Nice [INAUDIBLE] work.
Yeah.
CHARLES HANSON: That's quite good, you know?
1920s.
Could do quite well.
SIAN WILLIAMS: I think it's a little bit odd though.
It is a bit quirky, isn't it?
CHARLES HANSON: It's well done, isn't it?
SIAN WILLIAMS: Yes.
Condition's good.
They're not in any way stained or marked.
Do you think any butterflies were harmed in that feather tray?
No, I'm sure not.
No.
Get out of here.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Mm, I think following on from bear gate Charles may be telling a little porky.
The tray is actually made up from hundreds of butterfly wings.
In the 1920s, peacock butterflies were often raised on farms in Europe and used for jewelry and decorative art.
Out of interest, Steve, if we said to you, what's the best price, what would be the best knock down as a giver and we're a taker?
I would have to ring her.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): As Steve needs to make a call, Sian asks for a price on the Chinese bowl she likes too.
SIAN WILLIAMS: I'm really conscious that you have never lost against Charlie Ross.
- Doesn't matter.
- It matters to me.
- Listen, it doesn't matter.
- It matters to me.
Charlie and I are great friends.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Hey, speak of the devil, Charlie and Carol are also on the hunt for a deal elsewhere at Baddow Antiques.
Ooh, this is an Aladdin's cave isn't it, Charlie?
Look, there's a man.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): That's not Aladdin though.
That's the dealer Ron.
Hi, Ron.
CHARLIE ROSS: Shall I walk from front to back?
You do the same, Carol.
Yeah.
And then we'll see what Ron's got for us.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Left to her own devices, like a magpie, Carol gravitates to the sparkly stuff.
Ah, here's more bling.
This is what I've been looking for.
That's a nice ring, the red one.
But-- RON: Yeah.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: --I know Charlie won't be impressed if I buy that.
RON: [LAUGHS] TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): But Charlie has found something he is impressed with-- a Victorian painted cast iron letterbox.
And without consulting Carol he's on the phone negotiating.
Bad boy, Charlie.
I hope she likes it.
CHARLIE ROSS: I'm not going to beat about the bush.
25 quid.
I know.
I know.
I know.
I'm a horrible man, Ernie.
I'm awful.
I'm ghastly.
And if you were here, you would have permission to hit me.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Permission granted, Ernie.
Ooh!
Hang on.
Carol, I don't know what you're going to think of me, but I bought a Victorian letterbox.
It's wonderful, Carol.
Don't you love it?
Carol, tell me you love it.
I love it.
I love it.
I love it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Phew.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Now-- now that you you're enthused, Charlie, I've seen something up here I want you to have a look at it as well.
- I can't get up.
Let me help you.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): I wonder if it sparkles.
Meanwhile, Sian and Charles are waiting for a price on the tray and bowl when Charles spot something else.
CHARLES HANSON: Let's just see what else is in this cabinet.
I've seen something else.
Well, that's nice.
Hellfire.
The ear's fallen off.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Careful, Charles.
That's a 19th century Staffordshire cat.
Deaf now.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Oh, you've broken the ear.
CHARLES HANSON: Have you got any glue at all?
SIAN WILLIAMS: Oh no.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Would she travel with a tube?
CHARLES HANSON: It wasn't me on, honestly.
It just fell off.
- Oh stop it.
- Honestly.
No, it wasn't me.
I promise you.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Pull the other one, Charles.
Actually best not.
You might break something else.
CHARLES HANSON: What should we do?
I think you have to tell him.
I'll stick it back on quick.
No!
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Lucky for Steve, Sian's moral compass is as straight as an arrow.
STEVE: The very best she can do is 75.
SIAN WILLIAMS: 75, OK.
In the meantime-- Yes.
--um, Charles went into the cabinet to take this small cat out and he touched the ear of the cat-- STEVE: And it's fell off.
And it sort of came away under his thumb, but he thinks that it was loose.
CHARLES HANSON: It was loose, sir.
Don't worry.
CHARLES HANSON: Yeah.
What's the best price on the cat?
Honestly.
You hold the ear.
What's the price on it?
There's the ear.
25 pounds.
Oh, a tenner.
CHARLES HANSON: Yeah, I think for 10 pounds that's quite good value despite the broken ear.
OK. What's he talking about?
Do you like cats?
Um, meh.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): You do now.
This is the second item Charles has bought that Sian dislikes.
But what about the bowl and tray she found?
Right, bowl 75.
75 is the very best she will do.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Is the very best she can do.
Have we got a price on the feather tray?
- 40.
- 40.
I can do 40.
She can't do any less than that.
SIAN WILLIAMS: We'll go for the tray and the cat and that's 50.
STEVE: That's it.
Two for 50.
I'll shake the man's as well for you, boss.
That's 50 pounds all in-- Yep.
--for the tray and the cat.
Leave the plate for the time being?
SIAN WILLIAMS: It's so pretty and delicate.
It really is.
CHARLES HANSON: It's up to you.
I think it's a real gamble.
But then the road trip is all about a roller coaster and we'll ride it together.
Let's take the risk.
Really?
It's-- it's true.
It's real.
It's live.
It's now.
It's sold.
It's sold.
We're-- we're going to buy it, yeah?
Thank you.
We're going to go for it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): So after much debating, the plate purchase brings their spending here to 125 pounds.
CHARLES HANSON: And the fiver.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Oh!
There we are.
There's 10.
CHARLES HANSON: And five for the change?
No.
CHARLES HANSON: Are you sure?
Yep, yep.
We'll leave it at 70, yeah.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Really?
It gives you more of a chance.
CHARLES HANSON: Really?
SIAN WILLIAMS: Oh, bless you.
Thank you very much.
- You're welcome.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Isn't that nice?
In other words, get out of here before you break something else.
SIAN WILLIAMS: You get two.
Thank you.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): No, Charles, don't kiss him.
Carol too has found something that's caught her eye.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: I want to show you this.
I'm not sure-- I quite like it.
It's-- it's this here.
- Aha.
It's got kind of a Christmassy feel to it.
Probably because of the stag and the snow and the fir trees.
But we've got a teapot, a coffee pot, and then there's some more cups and saucers down there.
So there's a lot to it as well as the tea cups.
It's Crown Devon china, and it's quite interesting.
It's 1960s.
Not something I would want in my house.
Could we live together?
Would you like it in your house?
No, we could live together.
Perfect.
Yeah.
- We could live together.
That's fine.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): This isn't a wedding gift list, Charlie.
CHARLIE ROSS: Comes down to price.
Is this a Ron job?
Yes.
Is this you and Ron-- It's me and Ron.
--cooking up here.
Ron!
RON: If you bought it all-- CAROL KIRKWOOD: Yes.
RON: --I mean, it would have to be 225 pounds.
What!
You cannot be serious.
- Well-- - 225 pounds.
You sound like John McEnroe.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): That's over half their starting budget.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: So what's your best price?
CHARLIE ROSS: I'm leaving.
Carol, work your magic.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: I was thinking more like 150.
RON: It just-- it can't be done.
So what about we split the difference and go for 160?
That isn't splitting the difference.
I mean, I would go as low as 185.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: OK, thank you.
Can I consult with Charlie?
You can consult with who you like.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Although it seems Charlie's head is full of romantic gestures rather than antiques.
Serenade my Carol.
[ACCORDION MUSIC] Oh look, we have an accordion.
CHARLIE ROSS: (SINGING) Oh, Ron!
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Actually, Charlie, since you're here, Ron has agreed to-- was it 180 you said?
No, you said 180.
I said 185.
I would say to you, Carol, if you went on bended knee and Ron could possibly do it for 150 I would say buy it for 150 because I think you stand a sporting chance.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Come on, Carol.
Work that Scottish charm.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: I can give you hard cash right now.
150 notes.
Oh, Ron!
You legend!
Are you happy with that, Ron?
RON: No.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): It's not something shiny, but at 150 pounds Carol must be pleased as punch.
And Ron's generosity doesn't end there.
They're a nice couple.
There's something you might have missed, and it's a medal for an exhibitor at the Great Exhibition in 1851.
You might like to see it.
Love to see it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The Great Exhibition took place in Hyde Park, it's aim to celebrate the works of industry of all nations but also for Britain to showcase to the world its own industrial feat.
And a wee leather case as well.
That's cute.
- Yeah.
That's the medal.
CHARLIE ROSS: I think that's the original leather case, isn't it?
And who have we got there.
What a handsome devil.
Looks like you actually, Charlie.
Prince Albert.
Prince Albert.
He's got more hair than I have.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): But what about the all important question?
I will do it at a very reasonable 20 pounds and leave the rest to you.
Carol.
That sounds good to me.
Shake Ron by the hand.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Ron, thank you very, very much.
RON: Yep.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): A great price for a great little piece of history, which brings their spending in this shop to 195 pounds.
CHARLIE ROSS: Thank you very much indeed.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Whilst Carol and Charlie celebrate finally spending some money, Sian and Charles are heading for the village of Greensted-juxta-Ongar.
SIAN WILLIAMS: So we're off to visit a very old church.
My grandfather was a Presbyterian minister.
CHARLES HANSON: Was he?
SIAN WILLIAMS: So I spent a lot of my childhood in churches.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sian now hosts a Sunday morning religious and ethical debate program, and with churches such a strong part of her childhood, she should feel at home in St. Andrews.
The building dates back to the time Christianity was introduced to Britain.
That's over 1,300 years of history and worship as it's still in use today.
That looks amazing.
Shall we go in?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Charles and Sian are meeting Jackie, a guide at the church.
SIAN WILLIAMS: It's beautiful.
JACKIE: Thank you very much.
We think so.
SIAN WILLIAMS: And very, very old.
Very old.
It's been dated to 1060 to 1100, so we're the oldest wooden church in the world and the oldest wooden building in Europe.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Even more extraordinary, excavations undertaken in 1960 revealed earlier timber structures dating as far back as the sixth and seventh centuries.
CHARLES HANSON: So we could almost be now back in the 11th century walking in as maybe, I don't know, a bride and groom to be and there you've got timbers sitting, and they've been for a thousand years.
JACKIE: Yes, yes, yes.
CHARLES HANSON: Amazing.
Let's pretend you're a peasant farmer.
OK. That's rather romantic.
And I'm a land girl.
All right, OK. [LAUGHTER] Thanks a lot.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Looks like the wedding's off, Charles.
Inside, the church is a veritable treasure trove of quirky historical artifacts and stories like the lepers hull, thought to have been used by lepers as they weren't allowed into the church itself, and a Bible bound in the original wood from the church's walls and still used today in sermons.
CHARLES HANSON: Hello, 1060.
I'm 2014.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The church is also famous for its stained glass windows, one of which pays homage to St. Edmund, the first patron saint of England whose body is believed to have rested here for a night.
JACKIE: King Edmund was King of East Anglia in 855 and he ruled for 15 years.
Apparently it was very, very peaceful during his reign.
However, the Danes started invading this part of England and he was captured.
Hunger, the leader of the Danes, said that he was to give him half his kingdom and half his wealth and relinquish his faith.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Edmund agreed to hand over half his kingdom and half his fortune but would not relinquish his faith.
JACKIE: So they took him out of the church and they beat him, and then they tied him to a tree.
And when he still would not relinquish his faith, they shot him with arrows and darts.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): And as if that wasn't enough, the Vikings chopped off his head and threw it away in a wood.
It is told that his head was found by a talking wolf who guarded it between his paws until Edmund's friends came along to find him, reuniting his head with the rest of his body.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Poor old Edmund.
Why was he superseded by George?
What did George do that Edmund didn't to make him patron saint of England?
Well, George was chosen by the Normans to be our patron saint, and the Normans obviously wanted to take over the country and eradicate all things Saxon.
So they wanted to do away with our way of life.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Let's campaign to get Edmund back as patron saint of England.
- Yeah, quite right.
- Yes?
JACKIE: Yeah, yeah.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Do you think?
For all he went through.
JACKIE: Definitely.
I think he should.
It starts here.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): You heard it here first.
Meanwhile, Charlie and Carol are off to the quintessentially charming village of Blackmore in Essex.
It's believed that Henry VIII's illegitimate child Henry Fitzroy was born here.
And speaking of royalty.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Oh, I love the Queen in particular.
I-- - Have you met the queen?
- Yes, I have.
- No.
Do you know what, Charlie, I had the great honor and privilege of giving a talk to the queen.
And the queen has such a brilliant sense of humor-- Really?
--that the nerves quickly went.
CHARLIE ROSS: So when will it be Lady Kirkwood?
When I marry Sir someone or other.
I know.
[LAUGHTER] TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sorry, Charlie.
Looks like you're out of it then.
Carol and Charlie are left with nearly half their original kitty to spend.
I'm sure they'll sniff out a bargain.
Not here though.
At Megarrys Antiques and Teashop.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Open.
This is a good sign.
Hello.
JUDY: Hello.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Our lovable duo split up to cover more ground.
And for once, it seems Carol isn't after bling.
We had a wee bunny just like that one-- the SylvaC rabbit there-- when I was growing up at home.
Ooh, bling.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Nope, spoke too soon.
But she has found something else that's put a sparkle in her eye.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: It's different.
It's small.
It would fit into any house.
It's attractive.
CHARLIE ROSS: Yeah.
You like it, don't you?
I do like it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): This walnut side table is a reproduction, but at over 100 years old it's still an antique.
Can they afford it though?
CHARLIE ROSS: I love that little Louis XV piece.
I think there's some movement on that.
CHARLIE ROSS: Is there?
But I'll have to look the stock number up.
CHARLIE ROSS: Have a look at your stock book.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Fingers crossed.
I think I've got an answer for you.
CHARLIE ROSS: Try me.
Two.
That is bottom line.
Yes.
Yeah, yeah.
No, no, no.
I'm not-- I'm not even-- I'm not even wincing.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Yes you were, Charlie.
I want Carol to win as well.
Oh, thank you Judy.
Thank you.
CHARLIE ROSS: We haven't quite got that amount, have we?
We've nearly-- CAROL KIRKWOOD: We've nearly-- - --got that amount.
- We're three pounds short.
You've got-- Three pounds short?
I'm not going to quibble about three pounds.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: What have I-- Carol, you've given the game away there.
[LAUGHTER] No, no, no.
You've got to be hard-headed about these things, and it's super.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Astonishingly, Carol has fallen for something other than bling, but Charlie is thinking with his head for once.
CHARLIE ROSS: Well, I'll tell you, 200 pounds is about what it'll make and it's lovely.
So we wouldn't make a profit on it?
No, I don't-- I don't think you would.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: That doesn't matter.
It's such a beautiful piece.
And the satisfaction we'll both get from buying.
- Owning it.
- Yes.
- Briefly.
- Exactly.
- Yep.
- Yes.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Despite having said she wouldn't buy furniture, Carol is determined to get the side table.
The only issue now is the price.
CHARLIE ROSS: You know what we've got.
We've got 197 pounds in our pocket.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Can you do anything better than 180, Judy?
175 absolute bottom drawer.
Oh look, you're dropping.
Hold on.
Would you like a chair, Judy?
JUDY: Yes.
CHARLIE ROSS: We've been given a cracking price.
Can you think of any other reason why we shouldn't buy it?
No, I think we should buy it.
Sold.
OK. Did it-- well, that came with such a sigh, Judy.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The deal is sealed.
With a shiny side table in tow, Charlie hands over the dosh for their final purchase.
Come on.
You are incorrigible.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): And with the shopping now finished, Carol and Charlie head to Greensted Church where it's time to unveil their wares.
3, 2, 1.
This is our tabletop.
Look at that.
Oh.
Oh no.
The bear's gone.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Wishful thinking on Sian's part.
I haven't seen anything I like yet.
Sorry about that.
I-- look-- oh, that's good.
Can I look?
CHARLES HANSON: Course you can.
I have to say I wouldn't give him house room, but I'm sure he's-- No.
Put it there, girl.
That's exactly what I said.
Isn't it funny-- SIAN WILLIAMS: That's exactly what I said.
Charles, well done.
I think you've bought something absolutely marvelous here.
SIAN WILLIAMS: It's horrible!
CHARLES HANSON: Charlie, sell it to Carol.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Or better still, Sian.
Black Forest.
CHARLES HANSON: Yeah.
Late 19th century.
CHARLES HANSON: Yeah.
Highly collectable.
We paid 140 pounds.
I think that's a good thing.
Because we feel, Carol, it might make between 150 and 250.
It could make 250 to 350.
No, it won't make 250 to 250.
CHARLES HANSON: It could roar home.
No, no.
No.
No, no.
No, no.
Will you?
No.
Oh, stop it.
Stop it.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): And another of Sian's least favorite pieces now with the ear stuck firmly back on.
What do you think of the cat?
CHARLIE ROSS: I love it.
Carol, what's it worth?
50 pence.
That's how much I would pay for it.
Do you know what, Carol, I would not have even paid 50 pence for it.
CHARLES HANSON: Carol, one question, is the sun shining on us?
No, it looks like it's going to rain.
[CHATTER] TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): But what will Sian and Charles think of their rivals' purchases?
Ooh wow.
Oh I like-- wow, I like this.
It's the Crown Devon, Charlie, isn't it?
CHARLIE ROSS: It's Crown Devon, exactly.
Crown Devon.
What's the pattern?
Leaping deer or something like that?
- Stockholm.
- Stockholm.
Of course.
Stockholm.
Yeah, yeah.
There's nice little stags, fir trees, a bit of snow.
Winter kind of scene.
Well done, that girl.
Well-- She might have just swung it for you, you know?
I bet you paid surely more than 150 pounds.
We paid exactly 150 pounds.
Did you really?
OK.
Interesting.
Very good.
Thank you very much.
Very interesting, Carol.
Sian, come here.
Yes.
What do you think of that?
Oh yes, I didn't see that.
Is this walnut?
CHARLIE ROSS: It's walnut.
It's late 19th century.
Copy of-- Yeah, Louis XV's style, isn't it?
- Louis XV.
- Yeah, yeah, yeah.
So it's 100 years later than it might have been originally.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Yeah.
CHARLIE ROSS: But it's still a genuine antique.
CHARLES HANSON: I'm hoping you've paid probably-- in my estimation I really feel-- Hold on to me, Sian.
I'm going to be really kind now because at auction I feel it's worth between-- Pick it up, pick it up.
--70 and 100 pounds.
Oh no, no.
We paid 150 pounds.
No, we paid 175 for it.
You didn't?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): A mixed reaction, but what do they really think?
What was interesting to me was seeing Charlie's reaction to the bear-- CHARLES HANSON: To the bigger one.
--that I didn't like.
Absolutely right.
And you said to me, you've got to trust me on this show.
CHARLES HANSON: Yeah.
But I don't think the rest of their items are much good at all to be perfectly honest with you.
The table at 175 is a massive spend.
SIAN WILLIAMS: That's a big spend.
CHARLES HANSON: And I think it's worth, on a really good day, 80 pounds.
- Touch and go.
- Yeah, I think-- Touch and go.
I think it could be really close.
But trust me, we'll be OK. OK.
I hope so.
Come on then.
I do trust you.
Thought you did.
No, no, I really do.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Methinks the lady protesteth too much.
The auction is in the beautiful market town of Cirencester, often referred to as the capital of the Cotswolds.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Are you looking forward to the auction.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: I don't quite know what to expect.
SIAN WILLIAMS: No, me neither.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): All will soon be revealed.
CHARLES HANSON: Almost on.
- Come on, Carol.
SIAN WILLIAMS: We're almost on.
CHARLIE ROSS: Let's get in.
We're almost on.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Today at Cotswolds Auction House our celebs' wares are for sale online, on the phone, and in the room.
Our auctioneer is Elizabeth Poole.
The bear.
Yes, he's lovely.
The fact that he's a dancing bear with a pole is probably less saleable than if he hadn't got his dancing pole, but it's nice that it's a clock.
I'm a little wary of the books because of the condition and that they're not the sort of thing that's terribly desirable today.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Carol and her very own force of nature Charlie Ross have spent 378 pounds of their original 400 pounds on five lots, and they still have time for romance.
That's one of the nicest oil paintings I've ever seen.
Aw.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sian and Charles could only bear to part with 335 pounds accumulating six lots.
It's sold.
It's sold.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): To date, Charles is undefeated by Charlie Ross, but could this be the day all that changes?
I've never been to an auction before.
This is all new territory for me.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Carol was after all things shiny but ended up falling for a wooden side table.
It's their most expensive purchase, so fingers crossed.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 100.
110.
120.
We're going now.
Now we're going.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 130.
140.
150.
Good one, Charlie.
You're mad.
It's like being a Wimbledon, Carol.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 170.
- You're in the money.
Here we go.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 180.
Yes!
ELIZABETH POOLE: 190.
200.
210.
220.
It will fit in a small house.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 230.
Carol!
ELIZABETH POOLE: 240.
Oh, Carol.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 250.
(SINGING) Don't let me steal your heart away.
270.
At 270 on the phone.
270 on the phone.
You're done in the room.
At 270 on the phone.
That's really a big high five.
Gosh.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 280.
- 280!
Yes, he's gone over.
ELIZABETH POOLE: At 280.
At 280.
CHARLES HANSON: Roll it home.
Roll it home.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 290.
At 290.
On the phone at 290.
At 290 on the phone.
Last chance then.
Going, going, at 290.
[CHEERING] Well done!
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): An amazing result for their first lot.
Who needs bling when you've got 115 pounds profit?
It shows they've got the right people here.
We're going to have a good day.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Sian loved her Shelley vase and posy holder, but will the bidders too?
ELIZABETH POOLE: 20 to start.
- Come on.
Let's go.
- 20 to start.
10 pounds each.
It's a bargain at 20.
It is a bargain at 20.
ELIZABETH POOLE: A new post at 20.
Come on.
- I don't believe it.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Start me at 20.
CHARLES HANSON: I don't believe it.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Start me at 20 pounds.
10 pounds each.
- Surely.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Nobody wants them at-- Madam.
ELIZABETH POOLE: --20 pounds.
I'm trying hard here, Charles.
At 20 pounds.
You're doing a great job.
Sorry, Liz.
ELIZABETH POOLE: At 20 with the lady.
Anymore?
Last chance.
Leave it here at 22.
Five is it.
At 22 with the lady.
22.
One more.
look at me.
ELIZABETH POOLE: For five at 22.
Last chance.
Pick one more.
Going at 22.
Oh no.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): A disappointing first lot for Sian and Charles.
Don't worry.
It's OK.
I'm extending my love and saying goodbye.
I want to go and buy them.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Can Carol and Charlie make another big win on their Victorian books?
ELIZABETH POOLE: Start me at 10 pounds.
Two nice little books at 10 pounds.
Easy.
Any interest at 10?
Five then.
Five pounds.
Who'll give me five?
Five pounds.
No interest at five.
Five pounds.
- Sit down.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Two little Victorian books.
Five I'm bid.
Thank you.
At five.
CHARLES HANSON: Come on, Charlie.
Lady's bid at five.
Five pounds.
Any more?
Lady's bid at five.
Six now.
At six.
Seven is it?
Seven.
At seven pounds with the lady.
Eight is it?
Eight with the gentleman.
Eight pounds.
At eight pounds.
All done then and selling at eight.
That's exactly what they cost.
Oh well.
Thanks for coming.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Well, perhaps not on fire, Charlie, but breaking even is still a good result and you're still in the lead.
Oh, this is exciting.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): But with the temperature rising in the room, what better time to try out Sian's barometer?
ELIZABETH POOLE: We'll start me at 20.
20 pounds.
- Come on, let's go.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Any interest at 20?
Any interest at 20?
- Come on, let's go.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 10 then.
10 pounds for the little barometer.
10 I'm bid.
At 10.
Anymore?
- Look over there.
Just over there.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 12 with the lady.
15.
18.
With the lady at 15.
At 15.
Is there any more?
Selling at 15.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Another disappointing result, but Charles is still looking on the bright side.
CHARLES HANSON: But you know what, Sian, I'd rather get the bad ones out of the way first and look forward to the good times.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Dealer Ron gave Carol and Charlie quite a bargain on this bronze medal.
Can it turn a profit?
ELIZABETH POOLE: Bit of interest here on the book.
Let's start the bidding with me at 10.
12.
12 bid.
At 12.
- Sell it.
Sell it.
At 12 it's going on.
At 12.
15 in the room.
At 15.
At 15.
18.
20.
- Yeah, that's it.
- Stop now.
ELIZABETH POOLE: It's been seated at 20. Who's going on at 20 pounds?
Is there anymore?
- That's great.
Well done.
ELIZABETH POOLE: At 20 pounds.
What do you mean great?
This is a disaster.
No.
Very disappointed with that.
I'm very disappointed with that.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Oh, bad luck.
They got that for a steal.
Next up is the Chinese bowl Sian loved.
10 I'm bid.
At 10.
At 10.
This isn't a lot at 10 pounds.
20th century.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Is there anymore?
At 10.
- I don't believe it.
It's 20th century.
- No it's not.
- It is.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 10 in the center now.
Selling at 10 if you're all finished.
At 10 pounds.
Last chance.
CHARLIE ROSS: Now, that is a disaster.
That is.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Charlie Ross seems to think that the bowl is younger than Charles had originally thought, and it appears the buyers here today agree.
Carol, I feel-- I feel we're almost going to surrender to your lead now that perhaps just is about insurmountable.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): It's not over yet, Charles.
Without Carol's permission, Charlie purchased the so-called Victorian letterbox, but will it put a final stamp on their victory?
ELIZABETH POOLE: 30 pounds.
No takers at 30 pounds.
Come on.
No interest at 30 pounds.
CHARLIE ROSS: You need a letterbox.
Only teasing.
CHARLIE ROSS: I know you need a letter box.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Everybody needs a letter box.
20 pounds start me off then.
Any interest at 20?
It's very heavy.
With the lady at 20 pounds.
At 20 pounds.
Must be worth more than this.
22.
22.
22 standing.
At 22 standing.
25.
- There we are.
All the hounds are here, Charlie.
You're getting the money.
This is not a lot.
At 25.
Keep going.
Keep going.
Is that profit?
Come on.
No, it's wiping its face.
Have to let it go.
It's cheap at 25.
Is that a profit?
Oh, did someone bid?
Did you get it?
- Yeah, they bought it.
- Well done.
CHARLIE ROSS: Well done.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Thank you.
CHARLIE ROSS: An absolute snip.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Another surprise result, but they're still in the lead.
We're going down, Charlie.
We're going down.
No, no, Carol.
Stick with me.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Next up, a cat with a glued-on ear.
Best of luck, guys.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Start me at 50 pounds.
This is our make or break.
Nobody is on the phone.
50 [AUCTIONEER CHANT],, come on.
- Come on, she says.
- She's on the phone.
Come on.
- We've got 50.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 30 I'm bid.
Thank you, sir.
30.
- Oh, 30.
Come on.
Let's go.
ELIZABETH POOLE: At 30 here.
Come on.
It's worth a bit more.
30.
Come on, let's go.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 45.
50.
We're going.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 55.
60.
Come on.
One more, madam.
ELIZABETH POOLE: At 60.
At 60.
CHARLES HANSON: One more.
ELIZABETH POOLE: At 60.
Come on.
One more.
At 60 with the gentleman.
One more.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Is there any more?
I shall sell at 60.
All done.
CHARLIE ROSS: Brilliant.
60 pounds.
- Thanks.
Great.
That's great.
The journey is on, hey?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): An amazing profit for Sian and Charles.
They're back in the game.
That's really good.
Yeah, but you still have the bear.
Congratulations, Charles.
Sian.
Sian.
Put it there.
That was brilliantly done.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): The tension is rising, and at 150 pounds Carol's Stockholm china set was a high risk purchase.
Let's hope it pays off.
Lots and lots of interest.
Let's start the bidding at 55, 60.
At 60 pounds.
At 60, 5, 70.
- Lots of interest?
60?
ELIZABETH POOLE: 5, 80, 5, 90, 5, 100, 110, 20.
At 120.
At 120.
- Bit more.
Give me a bit more.
More, more, more, more.
At 120.
120.
130.
140 bid.
At 140.
Any more online at 140.
On commission.
Are we all done at 140.
- Well-- - Well done.
--it could have been a lot worse, couldn't it?
And to lose.
I thought it would go higher than that, actually, the way it was going like this.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): I agree.
Another shock result though, and Carol and Charlie's first loss of the day.
Next, love it or loathe it, the dancing bear.
Charles is convinced it's a winner.
It'll need to be to get them back in the competition.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 50 pounds to start.
Hold my hand, Carole.
Hold my hand because this is the big one.
Good luck.
Good luck.
60.
65.
70.
Is nobody in the room?
ELIZABETH POOLE: 75.
80.
85.
90.
95.
Oh my god.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 100.
110.
120.
130.
- Keep going, girl.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 140.
150.
160.
170.
CHARLES HANSON: Let's go, girl.
Let's party hard.
The escape is on, girl.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 200.
220.
Let's go, girl.
ELIZABETH POOLE: 240.
260.
- Bring on the show, girl.
280.
300.
At 300 we're standing.
- Keep going!
ELIZABETH POOLE: At 300 it's standing.
Any more online?
At 300 in the room.
All done.
CHARLES HANSON: Keep going.
Well done.
Well done.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
Thank you.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): An amazing victory and what a comeback.
The competition is really hotting up.
Who's winning?
CHARLES HANSON: I don't know.
I don't know who's winning.
I can't work it out.
I can't work it out anymore.
It's no good.
Like my mathematics are no good.
I don't know what's happening.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): It's all too much.
The contest is now wide open.
It's down to Sian and Charles's final lot.
ELIZABETH POOLE: It's 10 pounds.
- Hold my hnd.
[INTERPOSING VOICES] - Yes.
Please.
We need this.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Any interest at 10?
CHARLES HANSON: Look at me.
Beautiful tray.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Selling at five.
Five?
No interest at five pounds.
Nobody wants it.
Any interest at five?
Oh no.
No.
CHARLES HANSON: We rode so high.
They can't hear me because you're making such a noise.
Being told off by the auctioneer.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): You tell them, Liz.
ELIZABETH POOLE: Five I'm bid.
Thank you.
At five pounds.
Any more.
At five pounds with the gentleman.
This isn't a lot.
Come on.
Six.
This is a plea for a little bit more.
Six pounds anywhere.
Selling then at five if I have to.
All done.
We bidding, madam?
No, fine.
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): Nice try, Charles.
In spite of his cajoling, they've racked up another big loss.
CHARLES HANSON: And I still think it's going to be close.
Of course it's close.
Who's won?
TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): So it's time to find out.
And let me tell you, it's a close one today.
Sian and Charles made a small profit after auction costs of 2 pounds 42p, leaving them with 402 pounds and 84 pence.
But Carol and Charlie did marginally better, and after costs emerged with a profit of 18 pounds 6 pence and a final tally of 418 pounds 6p.
All profits, both great and small, go to Children In Need.
What's more, for the first time in "Antique Road Trip" history, Charlie Ross has emerged victorious over Charles Hanson.
Well done.
Put your hand there.
Congratulations.
CHARLIE ROSS: I've beaten you at last.
CHARLES HANSON: Sian, allow me.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Thank you so much.
CHARLES HANSON: We've had a ball.
We've had an absolute ball.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Oh, it was great fun.
Carol, I haven't said goodbye.
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Parting is such sweet-- Get out of the way!
[LAUGHTER] TIM WONNACOTT (VOICEOVER): It looks like victory has gone to Charlie's head.
Carol!
[LAUGHTER] Come on, Charlie.
All the best.
Thanks a lot.
Bye, girls.
Thanks a lot.
Bye bye, ladies.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Bye, boys!
CHARLIE ROSS: No, Carol.
No, don't leave us!
Don't leave us!
CAROL KIRKWOOD: Come on, Sian.
Let's get out of here.
SIAN WILLIAMS: Hey!
It's been fantastic.
I've loved every minute of it.
We've laughed so much over-- We have.
--the past three days, haven't we?
Yes, it's been brilliant.
[THEME MUSIC]
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