For over 25 years John Bly has been a regular guest on the BBC's Antiques Roadshow where he specialises in evaluating furniture. As a featured expert in silver and miscellanea, John worked for Sotheby's before joining the family firm of John Bly & Son, which since the early 19th century has offered ‘fine antiques bought and sold, full valuations, cabinet making and restoration of the highest order’. In addition to his work on Antiques Roadshow, John has had his own ITV programme, Heirloom, and has been a regular contributor on The Great Antiques Hunt and Going for a Song.

Following an entertaining talk on antiques detective-work, How do you know how old it is?, the audience will take part in the Swaledale Festival’s own ‘Mini-Roadshow’. Those attending are invited to submit a favourite piece of their own for evaluation by John and the assembled crowd.

A small donation will be requested for each item assessed and there will be a limit of one item per person. Because of space restrictions furniture and large items won’t be appropriate, and please don’t bring very small items such as jewellery.

Please note that if time runs out, some people may not get a chance to show their favourite antique to Mr. Bly, and responsibility for any damages and insurance rests entirely with the owners.

The Swaledale Festival would like to thank The CB Inn for providing the venue for this event.