ANTIQUES expert Thomas Plant cast an eye over was sorting through items brought in by Swindonians in the hope they might be worth a fortune during an event yesterday (MONDAY).

The expert, who is an TV regular showing off his knowledge on the likes of theAntiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt and Flog It, was at the town centre’s Jurys Inn in Fleming Way for a valuation session.

A spokesman from Swindon Auction Services (SAS), which played host to Thomas, said although there were no major finds, there were more chances at a number of different events they had planned.

He said: “Special Auction Services was established in 1991 and is run by a dedicated team of experts headed up by Thomas Plant, a well-known face and regular expert on BBC’s Bargain Hunt, Flog It and Antiques Road Trip.

“Over the years we have expanded and now hold over 50 specialist auctions each year at our Newbury salerooms including antiques and collectables, jewellery, coins, watches, sporting and music memorabilia as well as toys, dolls and teddy bears.

“Each specialist auction is catalogued by our professional and dedicated team and entered into a printed auction catalogue.

“All items are professionally photographed and marketed to achieve the best possible prices.”

The valuation day came a day after Thomas was on hand to made a speech at a business breakfast hosted by BusinessWise (CORR).

He said: “I know Swindon and North Wiltshire very well as my team often works with clients in the area, so it’s great to be asked to talk to local business people and to meet people face to face.”