Ep 4. Walsall

In this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK, the team heads to the West Midlands town of Walsall to discover more about the hidden treasures that the locals have stowed away. Presenter Fiona Bruce and the experts are greeted by a large and enthusiastic crowd, eager to see if their antiques are worth more than they initially thought.

One of the first items to catch the experts' eyes is a small bronze statue of a horse that has been lovingly kept in a family home for generations. The owner had always assumed it was a cheap ornament, but the experts spot something special about the piece and put a surprising valuation on it.

Next up is a painting that has been passed down through the generations, but has never been properly appraised. The owner has no idea who the artist is or how much it might be worth, but the experts are able to use their knowledge to track down some information that helps to reveal the painting's backstory.

As usual, the experts are keen to seek out unusual and quirky items that might have a fascinating history or backstory. Among the items brought to the show are a collection of rare chess pieces, a handmade music box that was created by a prisoner of war, and a pair of silver candlesticks that have a surprising link to the Titanic.

To add another layer of intrigue, there's a competition element to this episode. Throughout the show, the experts compete to see who can find the most valuable item, with the winner receiving a prize at the end of the day. It adds an extra dimension of excitement to the proceedings and makes for some entertaining moments as the experts try to one-up each other.

One of the highlights of the episode is an item that has been causing the owner some distress for years. It's a small porcelain figurine that has been in the family for generations, but has always had a troubling backstory. The owner has never been able to explain why the figure is so unusual, but the experts are able to shed some light on its unique features and offer a valuation that will surprise even the most hardened antique hunters.

As always, the show gives viewers an intriguing insight into the world of antiques and the fascinating stories behind the items in people's homes. Along the way, Fiona Bruce and the experts offer up interesting tidbits of information about the history of the West Midlands and the place of antiques in British culture.

Overall, this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK is a treat for anyone who loves history, antiques or just a good story. With its mix of fascinating objects, entertaining experts and engaging presenters, it's a must-watch for anyone interested in the hidden treasures of the past.