THERE were more than a few 'bobby dazzlers' on display when David Dickinson came to Darwen.

The TV antiques expert cast his eye over people’s hidden treasures on Saturday during filming of his hit daytime show ‘Dickinson’s Real Deal’ at Darwen Leisure Centre.

The show gives the public the chance to see their items auctioned, or take one of four dealers’ cash offers.

Gems brought to Darwen included fine Goss-crested china, precious bronze, a vintage guitar and a rare model plane.

David said: “I think it's been a very good day. We've had a huge crowd and a really wide range of items.

“We've had paintings by good artists, silverware, jewellery, an amazing 1930s bronze by Bergman, which is very fashionable at the moment, and we've just had an amazing silver-plated, very unusual German cigarette and cigar compendium plane.

“The seller turned down an offer of £1,400 and has decided to gamble at auction. A few days ago a major London auction saw one go for £3,000. You can’t always repeat this kind of thing, but the chances are I think she will do better than £1,400.

“I'm a northern boy and I think what is very apparent is that the cheeriness of the people here.The welcoming, bright, warm feeling all day, has been fantastic.”

John Mason, 63, of Ewood, brought 17 Butlins badges he had collected since he was a child.

He bartered with dealer Ian Towning, and eventually accepted an offer of £55.

Mr Mason said: “The badges acted as a pass if you left the camp. I've got more in the house but these were spare ones.

“I've seen them on eBay for a few pence. They go for about £3 sometimes.

“He was a nice lad, so I'm sorry I ripped him off!”

Nevertheless, Mr Towning said he was very satisfied with his day's trading.

He said: “To my surprise I had paid too much for the badges, but I'm sure I'm going to make money out of them.

“Earlier there was a collection of three vases made by Carlton Ware, around 1930 to 1940.

“They were so superb in colour, quality and condition I paid £350, which is quite a lot, and the seller, a very persuasive gentleman, was over the moon.”

Viewers will be able to see how the items fare at auction when the show goes to Maxwell's in Stockport in January.