BBC expert unearths treasures at antiques event in Tattenhall

A diamond brooch and finely carved jade lion were among the items identified by antiques valuers Christina Trevanion and Ashley Jones at Gifford Lea later living community in Tattenhall on Wednesday 3rd November as part of ‘The Grand Antiques Tour’.

 

Christina, known for her appearances on Bargain Hunt, Flog It!, Antiques Road Trip and Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is, was at Gifford Lea to give free valuations for residents and visitors from the local area, alongside fellow valuer Ashley Jones.

 

Interesting finds from the day included a diamond brooch, an 18th century Chinese porcelain blue and white charger, a Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) finely carved lavender jade lion, and a watercolour painting titled ‘Good – Bye!’ by John Strickland.

 

Christina commented: “The 1940s diamond brooch was the highlight of a fantastic day, with an insurance value of around £20,000. It is a rare-coloured diamond set giardinetto brooch, set throughout with canary yellow, lemon yellow, champagne and pink diamonds, exquisitely modelled as a basket of flowers in gold and platinum.

 

“The jade lion was another great find, with an insurance value of around £2,000. As well as the watercolour painting, valued at the same amount.”

Christina added: “It’s fascinating to discover the intriguing antiques, curious hand-me-downs and quirky finds that people have collected over the years. You never know what treasures could be hidden in your own home. The Grand Antiques Tour, from Inspired Villages has been the gift that keeps on giving!”.

 

Jessica Bennett, Village Manager at Gifford Lea, said: “We have an incredible community here at Gifford Lea and hosting events such as this gives people the opportunity to discover this secret gem that is right on their doorstep. In addition to a whole host of engaging events that we host throughout the year, everyone is always hugely surprised by the facilities, including the gym, pool and library, all at the heart of a retirement community.

 

“The Grand Antiques Tour has unveiled some incredibly exciting finds, made even better by the stories that accompany them. With Christina and Ashley offering their sought-after advice and explaining the history behind each item that passed through their hands, the atmosphere was wonderful and it was great so see so many new faces attend.”

 

Gifford Lea is home to 162 later living apartments in the Cheshire countryside, as well as a village centre with a café, restaurant, games room and library, plus a wellness spa and swimming pool.

 

To find out more about Gifford Lea, please visit: https://www.inspiredvillages.co.uk/village/gifford-lea