The Bidding Room

Nigel Havers welcomes sellers of collectibles and curiosities to the Bidding Room's home in Edinburgh, where they ply their wares to five dealers. The first hopeful seller is Andrew, with a pair of paintings imprinted with nostalgia. The depictions of drunken monks hung on his uncle's wall for years, and Andrew couldn't see them sent to the skip. Which of the dealers will take a measure of the paintings? Next in is Susan, who's posted a "for sale" sign on her miniature property. Despite pouring her time and energy into curating a full collection of fixtures and fittings within her doll's house, Susan wants to move it out of her spare bedroom and raise funds for her new passion in silversmithing. Will any of the dealers make an offer over and above Simon's valuation? Third to arrive at Edinburgh HQ is Paul with a sign that should raise a smile amongst the dealers - as long as they like clowns! The supersized clown face has served its purpose in Paul's antique's centre, and he's hoping to move it on, but will the dealers roll up with any bids? Jane is in next with an important piece of design history she hopes the dealers will be trumpeting for. The limited-edition advertising tool designed by Eduardo Paolozzi has been stuck in a cupboard for years, while one of the same designs is displayed in the V&A. Its status as a museum-worthy piece should appeal to astute buyers, but will any of the dealers offer Jane the right money to match or better Simon's jumbo valuation? Finally into the room today is Alec with a 1950s Tri-ang puff puff train, which brings him fond memories of his childhood. He's ready to let it go and raise some funds for an upcoming trip to New York. A mystery bidder could set him on the right tracks. The dealers today are Melissa, Viki, Jon, Jo and James, as well as Ian, Jacqui and JB.