Excitement is building ahead of a popular TV show’s visit to Suffolk next week – which could reveal an unexpected family fortune.
The BBC’s Antiques Roadshow will be filmed at Helmingham Hall, north of Ipswich, on Thursday, August 31, when presenter Fiona Bruce is hoping to uncover a valuable heirloom or car boot bargain with a surprising price tag.
People in the county are being asked to “raid the attic, dust off the family silver and bring out those much-loved or overlooked treasures” to ask some of Britain’s leading experts for a free valuation on the day.
Bruce, who is marking her 10th year presenting the programme, said: “The best part of working on Antiques Roadshow is that we never know who or what is going to turn up on the day. The visitors, the objects they bring, their stories and the location all combine to make a fabulous experience that we aim to capture for the viewers.
“If you are a fan of Antiques Roadshow, curious to see behind the scenes, or just fancy a day out, I would urge you to dig out your treasures and come along – we’d love to see you.”
The show, which is marking four decades on the nation’s TV screens, has not visited Suffolk for many years.
Executive editor, Simon Shaw said the team was excited to be visiting Helmingham Hall, the Grade I listed home and gardens, and intrigued by what finds may come to light on the day
“Our team of experts and Fiona love nothing better than hearing people’s stories and seeing what items they bring, so we hope as many people as possible come to Helmingham Hall and enjoy what our visitors consistently tell us is a fantastic day out,” he added.
“Even after 40 years, the magic formula of surprising some lucky guests with exciting news about their treasures is still a thrill for us, the visitors and the viewers.”
The doors open at 9.30am and close at 4.30pm. Entry is free and no tickets or pre-registration is required.
Visitors who believe they have an item with a particularly unusual story attached, an interesting collection, or large items of furniture, are invited to contact the show in advance via the Share Your Story link or email or write to Antiques Roadshow, BBC, Whiteladies Road, Bristol BS8 2LR.
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