The Travelling Auctioneers had a troubling update regarding one of its guests but there was some good news in store for them.
Auctioneer Izzie Balmer and restoration expert Robin Johnson made their way to Aberdeenshire to meet Nina and Norman, who were looking to part with some cherished antiques.
Nina had moved into her late mother Maggie’s house to look after Norman, Maggie’s partner of 25 years. The romance between Maggie and Norman began when they both attended university in the 1960s, studying at an art school in York, and they “never lost contact.”
Tragically, Maggie’s husband Barry passed away when Nina was just 13, and Norman’s wife Lottie also passed away years later.
“Maggie helped me quite a lot after the death of my wife. We saw a bit more of each other, and then slowly, over the months, it grew”, Norman recounted.
The proceeds from the sale of various pieces of Maggie’s antiques were intended for the renovation of the home that Nina and Norman now shared.
On the day of the auction, narrator Christina Trevanion announced that Nina would be attending the auction by herself.
She said: “Unfortunately, Norman isn’t well enough to be here today. However, Nina has made the 53-mile journey to say farewell to her mother’s belongings.”
Nina gave more details when she caught up with Robin: “He had a mild heart attack. He’s OK, he’s on the road to recovery.”
To which Robin responded: “Well, hopefully, after today, you can go back and give him the good news of all the money that’s been raised.”
The auction roared to life, and among the treasures up for grabs was a painting by esteemed Canadian artist John Little that had sparked considerable anticipation. Izzie launched the bidding saying, “Now this was Norman’s pride and joy, and he loved this.”
She commenced with an opening bid of £380 and hoped for a modest sale at £400, yet spirited competition ensued as two Canadian collectorsone on the phone, another bidding onlinebegan to spar.
The price soared until the online bidder triumphed with a final offer of £9,000. Nina couldn’t hide her delight, uttering an “Amazing” as applause broke out across the room.
After Izzie asked if Norman would be happy with the result, Nina confirmed: “He will be very pleased. Thank you, Izzie.”
Later, it was disclosed by Izzie and Robin that Nina and Norman’s collection had amassed a sumptuous profit of £10,707.
Delighted, Nina remarked: “That’s really good. I’m delighted. I’ll go give Norman the good news.”
The Travelling Auctioneers is available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.