HUNDREDS of visitors flocked to Croome Court when the BBC’s popular antiques programme Flog It! came to town.
Visitors from all over the country brought it in an array of items for valuation as cameras descended on the National Trust property near Worcester.
The weather, although overcast, kept warm and dry for the day meaning the whole event was filmed outside the spectacular columned portico of Croome Court.
Flog It!, now in its 15th series, filmed enough content over the course of two days to fill four episodes which will be aired sometime within the next 18 months.
The show regularly reaches an audience of more than 2million viewers in its weekday afternoon slot and is presented by Paul Martin.
Visitors arrived at the building as early as 7.30am on the day. Items which were filmed will be auctioned on June 16 at Littleton Auctions near Evesham.
Speaking to the Observer, Mr Martin said: “It’s been a lovely time here at Croome. The place is fascinating and provides a wonderful backdrop for our filming and it’s thanks to the sixth Earl of Coventry that we’re here today.
“Learning about this incredible man and the cutting edge designers he employed at Croome has been a really interesting part of the event. What a place he created.
“It’s great to see hundreds of people here bringing in their items and that’s what we like to see – Great British craftsmanship.
“This show has been going for 15 years, which I find hard to believe because it has flown by, but this is one of those shows where the BBC is at its best.
“Shows that involve the general public like this, Antiques Roadshow and Songs of Praise are great because they allow people to see for themselves what it is like to put a show together.
“The show’s success is largely due to the people and their items. The items don’t have to be worth a lot but if they showcase great craftsmanship then people will be interested in them. ”
Following millions of pounds worth of grants and donations, many projects have taken place at the building to restore it and give a new lease of life to the 18th Century building.
Croome’s house and visitor experience manager Amy Forster-Smith said Flog It’s visit was one to remember.
“We have had an absolute fantastic day and we have had a wonderful time with the BBC Flog It! crew welcoming all of our guests to Croome for the show,” she said.
“It’s always very exciting having a film crew here, but this the biggest filming event we have experienced.
“We’re really looking forward to seeing Croome on the BBC later this year.”
Mr Martin was also joined by antiques and collectables experts Adam Partridge, Natasha Raskin and David Fletcher who valued items throughout the whole day.
