Beatles' chairs are big find at resort's busy roadshow

Oct 27 2006 By Kate Mansey, Daily Post Staff

ANTIQUES Roadshow experts saw a record-breaking number of visitors in Southport yesterday, prompting BBC executives to consider broadcasting the show in two parts.

More than 2,500 people arrived early yesterday morning at the resort's Floral Hall as filming began for the last programme of the forthcoming series.

Presenter Michael Aspel and his team of antiques experts pored over thousands of treasured heirlooms and family artefacts.

One of the most unusual finds was a pair of barber's chairs used by The Beatles, which Jon Baddeley from Bonhams Auctioneers valued at £10,000 each.

Other finds proved valuable for their owners.

A wooden telephone box bought by a Southport restaurateur for £5, was valued at £1,000.

Originally, BBC executives anticipated yesterday's roadshow would provide enough material for one show.

But due to the unprecedented turnout, broadcasters last night said they are now thinking of airing the show in two parts.

Olwen Gillespie, spokeswoman for the Antiques Roadshow, last night said: "We've seen a record-breaking number of people here at the Southport event - it's been one of the busiest roadshows we've held.

"Because we have so many good items, we may have to have two programmes.