Philip Serrell
(Expert)
How do you find life on the road?
Travelling around the country is great fun – meeting different people and seeing different places.
What is your favourite part of your role?
In a rather masochistic sort of way, I love the auctions. Unfortunately, they don't always love me!
Why did you choose a career in antiques?
I think antiques found me rather than the other way round - and I'm glad they did.
What would you do for a living if you weren’t working in the antiques trade?
Well, I qualified as a PE teacher but I think those days might be long gone; probably something to do with the countryside.
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to work in antiques?
Buy for passion, not profit. If you love what you buy it won't matter if you can't sell it!
How did you get involved in Bargain Hunt?
I was approached by the series producer of the day and recorded the first Bargain Hunt, filmed at Malvern in 1999, which was broadcast the following year. I only ever thought I'd do one programme!
Who has been your most memorable Bargain Hunt team?
All of them!! It’s great the friendships formed with fellow experts and crew.
What has been your best Bargain Hunt find?
I found a Royal Worcester vase that made nearly £800. I’ve still not made up for some of the losses!
Which fairs do you particularly like shopping at when ‘bargain hunting’?
I like some of the big outside fairs… in the sun though and not when it's wet.
What’s the most profit / greatest loss you’ve made at auction?
The Royal Worcester vase was memorable - but I do recall a wooden turkey that really was a turkey, when it lost about £150.
What is your biggest guilty pleasure?
Cars are a bit of a failing, and wine, and chocolate - oh and there's wine and chocolate too.
How do you spend your free time?
I spend a lot of time watching sport and telling them all how good I used to be. The older I get the better I was.
Do you collect anything?
Anything really but I have to like it. Never buy on price alone.
Why do you think Bargain Hunt has such appeal?
I think it's a programme that has made antiques accessible to all - I'm really proud of that.
Why would you encourage anyone to appear on Bargain Hunt?
Bargain Hunt is an experience - I hope a really enjoyable one - but I think everyone gets caught out by how quickly the shopping hour goes.
