Entertainment

Antiques Roadshow to be filmed on closed set with small invited audience

The format will replace the usual large open events.
The format will replace the usual large open events. The format will replace the usual large open events.

Antiques Roadshow will return this summer but will be filmed on a closed set with a small invited audience, the BBC has said.

It will be the first time in more than 40 years that the programme will be filmed on a closed set, to allow for precautions against the spread of coronavirus.

Episodes are usually filmed as large open events at castles and stately homes.

Antiques Roadshow – Balmoral
Antiques Roadshow – Balmoral Fiona Bruce during filming at Balmoral Castle for a previous series (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Presenter Fiona Bruce and the team of experts will return and viewers are already being asked to contact the programme about their heirlooms.

Bruce said: “Normally we welcome around 5,000 people to each Antiques Roadshow, but of course in these extraordinary times we will have to do things very differently.

“We’ve come up with a new way to safely film the show yet still bring you amazing items and stories. I can’t wait to see what treasures you have hidden in your homes.”

Robert Murphy, series editor for BBC Studios, said: “To keep everybody safe and comply with current Government and WHO regulations we have planned our filming days very differently this year.

“We won’t be holding large open events, but we will be inviting people who have written in advance to attend.

“Our team of experts are looking forward to seeing your heirlooms and finds so do go to our website and let us know about your treasures. We could be inviting you on the show to find out if that mystery object that’s been gathering dust all these years is actually worth a fortune!”