Community · Wiltshire-wide
TV antique expert joins Royal Wootton Bassett auction house
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Bargain Hunt star and qualified gemmologist Izzie Balmer has joined RWB Auctions in Royal Wootton Bassett, offering free weekly valuations for residents.
A familiar face from the world of television antiques is set to become a regular fixture in Royal Wootton Bassett. Izzie Balmer, a specialist known for her roles on hit shows such as Bargain Hunt, Antiques Road Trip, and The Travelling Auctioneers, has taken on a new role as a consultant valuer at RWB Auctions.
Ms Balmer, who brings over a decade of experience as a qualified gemmologist to the role, will be based at the High Street auction house. The appointment marks a homecoming of sorts for the star, who has visited the site previously during television filming sessions.
Reflecting on her decision to join the business, which opened in the town in January 2024, Ms Balmer highlighted the unique nature of having an active saleroom on the High Street. While many auction houses have shifted to more remote locations to avoid parking constraints, the RWB Auctions site, formerly a supermarket, maintains the space and accessibility that she believes makes it a community hub.
“Having an auction house on the High Street is quite a novelty now,” she said. “This place has its own car park and because it used to be an old supermarket, we have the space too. It is lovely. There is such a buzz. I have only been here for two days and already it has been really positive.”
For those looking to uncover the potential value of their own possessions, Ms Balmer is inviting residents to bring items in for assessment. She noted that one of the most rewarding parts of her work is the opportunity to surprise local people with the true value of their inherited or stored items, noting that a piece of jewellery perceived as simple decoration often turns out to be something far more significant.
“When we pull out a diamond ring or something special and they think it is just a bit of bling, you have that moment when you get to tell someone and they have no idea,” she added.
Ms Balmer will be available at the RWB Auctions saleroom every Monday between 10.30am and 4.30pm. The sessions are open to the public without the need for an appointment, and the team will be providing free valuations for those interested in finding out more about their antiques and collectibles.
Source: Gazette & Herald · View original