Skeletons in cupboards or dusty vases in the loft, we all have something hidden away that could be worth something, even if it’s only sentimental value. These are the kinds of treasures antiques expert Jonty Hearnden is hoping to discover when he invites people along to The Radlett Centre next week with his live show What’s in Your Attic?

Jonty is well known to TV audiences for his stints on Antiques Roadshow, Cash in the Attic, Sun Sea and Bargain Spotting and his current show Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is.

I ask if the stage shows give him better access to the public than he might have had while working on Antiques Roadshow?

“It’s much more intimate,“ agrees Jonty. “That’s what I like about coming along to theatres, people can spend time with me and usually I will see everyone who’s brought something along.

"I want people to share their objects, not necessarily to have them valued but if they want to find out more information about them or are just happy to share their associations with the pieces. That’s what gets me excited – not just things that are old or valuable but if they have sentimental attachment. It’s always surprising to find out where these things come from. They may be of humble origin but be part of a very exciting personal journey.“

Before he arrives, Jonty will delve into the past of Radlett and the surrounding areas to see if he can discover Hertfordshire’s antique legacy. The former factories of Kodak and Whitefriars Glass should provide some interest as well as memorabilia from Radlett Aerodrome. 

“I’ve yet to do my homework but I’m particularly interested in local antiques as that sparks some great interest. I’ll be delighted if someone can surprise me with something local that I’ve not seen before.“

As well as interacting with his audience and taking questions, Jonty will share all his behind-the-scenes secrets and stories from the world of antiques and his 13 years on television.
Does he have any gossip about one-upmanship between antiques specialists?

“Most are genuine enthusiasts and are very happy to share their knowledge and expertise. A dealer can help people along the way but it depends on whether you’re buying or selling. If you’re buying and it’s a competitive market you’d keep your cards close to your chest.“

So what’s trending at the moment?

“Lalique glass is making record prices on almost a daily basis. Whitefriars has been affected by fakes of the Drunken Bricklayer vases, which sometimes squashes the interest. People don’t want to invest in what might be a fake, it’s disconcerting and affects the price ultimately.“
Which is a good investment then, art, furniture or jewellery?

“I still think gold and precious metal objects are a great thing to invest in, particularly good jewellery. Good wrist watches have really shot up in price. I visited a top-end dealer three months ago and he had a plastic watch and he said it’s yours if you can tell me to the nearest £1,000 how much it’s worth. It turned out it was worth £40,000 as it’s the watch Nadal wears only when he’s playing tennis. It just goes to show how provenance plays a really big role. It’s not always about quality as such but where its been, who’s handled it and who wore it.“

Jonty Hearnden comes to The Radlett Centre, Aldenham Avenue, Radlett on Thursday, October 4 at 8pm. Audiences are asked to only bring along one item per person.

Details: 01923 859291, radlettcentre.co.uk