TV antiques expert values local treasures in Melksham

Local antiques expert Paul Martin, who is best known as the presenter of the BBC TV programme Flog It!, valued some special and quirky items in the town this month. 

The Valuation Day was held at ‘that meeting space’ on Wednesday 8th May, with people bringing varied items ranging from jewellery to half a propeller from a World War One biplane and even an old copy of Melksham News! 

“We enjoyed a really busy day,” explained Paul, who lives in Seend. “It was wonderful to see Wiltshire’s heritage come to life in a former police cell linked to Melksham Town Hall. One lovely lot was from a resident who came in with ten Pelham puppets and a puppet theatre, all of course made in Marlborough, Wiltshire. They were very popular in the past and most people in the 1950s and 1960s had Pelham puppets. One was the policeman, so it felt quite appropriate to see him as we sat in an old police cell! There were ten puppets in their original boxes, valued at about £60 to £80 each and the theatre itself was worth about £120.  

“Plenty of jewellery, gold and vintage watches were brought in; some were to be sold as people felt they were out-dated, they didn’t want to wear them anymore, they didn’t have anyone to pass them on to, or they were not wanted by other family members.  

“One quirky item was half a propeller from a World War I biplane that had been converted into an umbrella stand! It was Edwardian and I estimated it would sell for between £200 and £300.” 

The administrator of ‘that meeting space’, John Firth, said, “Paul Martin’s valuation day was a well-attended, fascinating experience, with people bringing a wide variety of interesting objects to be valued. Paul took the time to examine every object carefully, hear their back stories, and engage with everyone. It was a pleasure to host the event and we look forward to the next one!”   

The next valuation day with Paul Martin will be held at ‘that meeting space’ on Wednesday 11th September. “Save the date,” says John.