NARRATOR: It's the nation's favorite antiques experts with 200 pounds each.

I like.

I like.

I like.

Ah!

NARRATOR: A classic car and a goal to scar Britain for antiques.

The aim, to make the biggest profit at auction but it's no mean feat.

They'll be worthy winners and valiant losers.

It's fine.

NARRATOR: So will it be the high road to glory?

Or the slow road to disaster?

Pull on the ignition.

NARRATOR: This is the Antiques Road Trip.

Yeah.

Let's get the party started.

It's the third helping of our road trip excitement with Christina Trevanion and James Braxton.

Surprise, surprise.

James is actually in the lead.

This road trip you'll be against James Braxton, they said.

James Braxton, they said.

Oh, delightful, I said.

What a gentleman he is, I said.

They said, don't worry you're bound to win because James never wins.

I know.

It's a shock to both you and I. NARRATOR: Last time, James' little Bovey figure raked in a small fortune.

And for 300 pounds.

[GAVEL STRIKE] Very, very, well done you.

NARRATOR: This leg.

Hello.

NARRATOR: Christina heads for uncharted waters.

Are you sure we're allowed back here?

Oh, yes.

NARRATOR: James gets to grip with the exotic.

I'm like a Bedouin tribesmen.

Oh.

Oh.

NARRATOR: How you going to spend your pile, James?

Buy diamonds.

Diamonds.

You've got the budget to buy diamonds now.

Come on, you can do it.

Not quite.

NARRATOR: From her original 200 pounds, Christina has 284 pounds and 92 pence.

James also began with 200 pounds, and he's way out in front with a mighty 616 pounds and 50 pence.

Everything you touched.

Just turned to gold.

Turned to gold.

I mean, literally.

Can you lend me some money?

NARRATOR: Our past road trip kicked off in Northumberland, auctioned in Hamilton and Greater Manchester, and will continue onwards to Merseyside, Tyne and Wear.

And we'll cross the border once more with the concluding auction in Ayr, on the west coast of Scotland.

Today, our adventure begins in Levenshulme, in Manchester, with an auction in Liverpool, in Merseyside.

What's the mood in the 1965 Jaguar Mark 2 like?

I sent you a challenge now.

You'll clamber back.

It puts the pressure on me.

I've got spending 100s now.

- Yeah, you have.

- I have.

You really have.

Are you going to spend it all?

I'm trying to.

Yeah.

NARRATOR: Our cheeky twosome have reached their first port of call.

Legend has it that Dick Turpin stopped here for a quick half on his travels.

But right now, our antiques heroes are sharing this fine establishment.

No fighting now you two.

You know, I think-- What are you swinging after?

--I've been here before.

- Have you?

- Yeah.

It's pretty, isn't it?

Yeah.

NARRATOR: Levenshulme Antiques Village has been established for over 30 years, and has dealers aplenty.

I think this goes to the ballrooms-- Well come on.

--do some waltzing, or something.

First one gets the bargain.

Come.

Come.

First one gets what?

The first one gets the bargain.

Oh, well, that's very true.

Oh my goodness.

This is part of my training.

NARRATOR: Blimey, those stairs look a bit strenuous.

Right.

OK. Upstairs or downstairs?

You're in the bargain basement my dear.

In the sin bin.

Sin bin.

Thank you, see you later.

NARRATOR: Behave yourself moneybags.

Now let's follow skippy Christina first.

Hello.

Look at this.

250 pounds, my goodness.

James could buy three of these with his budget.

My budget, (WHISPERING) I can't stretch to that much.

Nevermind.

beautiful.

Absolutely beautiful.

NARRATOR: Don't let your lack of cash put you off, Christina.

Some of the dealers here use the outbuildings to hoard their goodies.

This is all ringing a lot of bells.

Oh.

If you need me, call Baz.

I'm only 10 minutes away.

Thanks, Baz.

NARRATOR: While Christina tries to get hold of friendly dealer Baz, what's our James up to?

Who doesn't love an elephant?

I'm going to be spending sort of 100, 100 or pounds, and I'm looking for items.

Sensational items, items good quality, good materials, and humor.

Humor worked well for me.

That little figure.

And here is your regimental Sergeant Major barking out orders.

I want to replicate that.

NARRATOR: I bet you do.

Humor.

NARRATOR: Now, back to Christina.

Any luck with Baz?

Good morning.

How are you?

Now we met a long time ago didn't we?

A couple of years is it?

A couple of years, is it that long?

Yeah, I think so.

Goodness.

Have you missed me?

Yeah, I certainly have.

You wouldn't, hey?

Blimey.

I like that.

It's a very tactical boot scrape you've got there don't you.

Our soles need it.

Hey, look at this.

They don't need anything else.

You haven't sold those airplanes yet, have you?

So is this your workshop in here?

It was.

Yeah, it should be, but don't really do any work.

You don't do any work?

Is that why you open at 1:00?

1 o'clock.

NARRATOR: Cheeky.

Remember you want to get some deals.

Now Baz's empire stretches on, and on, and on.

Ta-da.

There we go.

This lifts up and lifts out.

How much is it on that?

10 pounds.

10 pounds?

Yeah, that'll be worth 10 pounds.

NARRATOR: This vintage kitchen rack could be used for drying herbs, or even flowers, as well as clothes.

You never know someone might like it.

5 her and I'll have it.

- OK. - Yeah?

Yeah.

Let's see what else we can find.

NARRATOR: A fiver for Christina's very first buy.

Back to the man with the cash, how's James faring?

Always look up.

Always look down.

This is quite a nice rug here.

What I like about it is the pattern.

Still nice and stiff.

It's still got its natural oils in it.

It's a red ground, and then it's got a nice formed ground border.

NARRATOR: There's no price tag on this one but that's never stopped him before.

If that could be, sort of, 50, 80 pounds I might have a go at that.

It's a goody.

NARRATOR: Dealer Ronnie is on hand to aid Mr. Braxton.

Now in the tradition of this business, how much have you got on the carpet?

40 quid.

40 quid?

Aye.

Will you take 30?

35.

35.

You've got yourself a deal, Ronnie.

Thank you.

Lovely doing business with you.

NARRATOR: Not bad, James.

35 pounds for a beautiful, but weighty, heriz carpet.

I'm like a Bedouin tribesmen.

Oh.

Never mind the quality, feel the weight chief.

Yo.

NARRATOR: Blimey, that's quite a workout.

Oh.

NARRATOR: With James' shopping done, there's time to torment Christina.

She's found another shed, and Baz's son Richard.

Is it dry in there?

Perfectly dry.

Yeah.

It's not wet?

This is galvanized, love.

Galvanized.

Oh, we're moving-- it's a history of ladders, isn't it?

NARRATOR: Seems like it.

Got a nice pop table there.

Yeah.

What's that, Christina?

Nothing.

Nothing.

Go away.

Nice angle price.

They sold quite well.

Those.

But make sure it stays in the correct position.

So many of them, sort of, move around.

Do they?

Yeah.

That's a cool label.

30 quid.

Is it?

30 quid.

See you only-- Please, go away.

I'm going away.

Good luck.

Have fun.

NARRATOR: Yeah, you scram, James.

That's cool, but it's not actually angle poised stamped, is it?

NARRATOR: Now let's take a better look.

Now Richard, I've already sort of had a word with your dad over in his establishment over here.

So what could be your very best price on said lamp?

30 pound.

No, Richard, that's not a very nice figure.

20 pounds.

25 and you a deal.

No, I've already spent money with dad.

I don't care.

20 pounds.

Try somewhere else.

NARRATOR: Richard tries to sweeten the deal with a vintage petrol can.

I don't even think I want a petrol can.

Give me your money.

Just give me your money.

OK, ready?

Yeah.

OK.

Thank you so much.

Thank you.

You're a gentleman, Richard.

Loving your style.

NARRATOR: Oh, she's got her way there.

Christina spent 20 pounds on the angle lamp and 5 pounds on the vintage kitchen rack.

Meanwhile, James has journeyed to the town of Altrincham in Greater Manchester.

As a bit of a foodie and gourmet himself, James is going to find out about the Maverick preacher who became the founding father of vegetarianism in Great Britain, William Cowherd.

Hello, James.

I'm Derek.

Welcome to Altrincham.

Lead on.

Let's go food.

NARRATOR: Born in Lancashire in 1763, Cowherd lived in a world where meat was king.

A staunch religious belief, coupled with a vegetarian diet was the way forward, according to Cowherd.

Why is vegetarianism-- why choose that as a cornerstone of belief?

There's a fundamental belief that God existed in every living thing.

And to-- to strike at another living thing was to harm God in some way.

So they also linked their vegetarianism to a mild-mannered approach to life.

They believe that a meat diet made people aggressive.

NARRATOR: At the time, the health benefits of a meat free diet were unknown.

How at odds was this sort of thinking?

You know, George III on the throne, steak and kidney pie, pints of Mead and Porter.

Yeah, well, certainly if you are rich and powerful, meat was part of your regular diet.

But I think for the ordinary person, meat with something of a treat.

But it's not true to say that it was so at odds with the times.

There was a burgeoning movement.

People like Shelley were advocating vegetarianism at the time.

A lot of leading Methodists, such as John Wesley, were vegetarians and advocated vegetarianism.

So Cowherd fitted into that movement, but the key thing that he brought-- it was he popularized it, and institutionalized it.

NARRATOR: After a series of conflicts with a variety of churches, Cowherd broke with convention and decided to build his very own place of worship.

He established the Bible Christian Church in a chapel that he built in Salford.

And in 1809, he preached his first sermon there when he called on his followers to become vegetarians.

And that was the very first vegetarian institution in modern times.

NARRATOR: The first to abandon meat eating and adopt vegetarianism as a healthier way of life, Cowherd's church became a magnet for the working class.

Cowherd attracted people from all over the Manchester area.

His church was absolutely packed.

And one of the reasons for that is, not only because of the radical theology that he put forward, but also because the work, the church became a working class institution.

It provided people with basic medical services, there was a library there, a school.

And I think one of the most important things, given the circumstance at the time, was the fact that you can have free burials there within five years, I believe, of the church being established.

Something like 3,000 people were buried in this tiny plot of land at the heart of Salford.

And that was really important for working class families.

NARRATOR: On a slightly lighter note, Jonathan Smith from the vegetarian society is going to treat James to a dish Cowherd would have eaten.

Peas pudding is traditionally made from dried peas, salt, and copious amounts of butter.

Oh.

Let's have a little bite.

Your back in time.

Mm, well, no wonder they had such a large congregation.

It's not bad, is it?

Yeah.

NARRATOR: And it appealed to the simple palate of Cowherd and his congregation.

Jonathan has also rustled up a modern day lentil doll to tempt James' taste buds.

So what can the modern vegetarian enjoy, which is so different from the peas?

Well we now have a much broader repertoire of ingredients than we had sort of back in the 19th century-- lots of international influence.

These two dishes actually have a lot in common.

They're both made from legumes.

That one is really good, isn't it?

Yep.

So from a rather sort of select initial movement, this is now-- vegetarianism is a very common way of life, isn't it?

There's no reason not to love vegetarian food.

Do you think I'd shrink?

NARRATOR: I am saying nothing.

With an estimated half a billion vegetarians worldwide, William Cowherd's pioneering radical beliefs in the 19th century began a movement that has endured the test of time.

Back to Christina in the fancy motor.

James has made an awful lot of money.

An awful lot of money.

And he should be justifiably proud of himself because he's done fantastically well, beyond his wildest dreams.

Which is brilliant.

But it also means that I have got an awful lot of catching up to do.

NARRATOR: Best get your skates on and find some winners 'ol bean.

The town of Failsworth in the Borough of Oldham is where we are headed.

With a rich heritage of hat making, this is the place to buy a traditional bowler.

James will be jealous.

Corner House Antiques is in the heart of the town's antiques quarter.

Owner Jim has been in the biz for over 30 years.

Show me the empire, Jim.

Where do we go?

Well, you can have a look in here.

Have a look around and see if there is anything, and then we go through here.

There's a big room where-- Oh.

--I'm sure we can sort you out.

Back here?

Are you sure we're allowed back here?

Oh, yes.

NARRATOR: Christina has just under 260 pounds to spend in here.

It's crammed full.

Oh, Jim.

That's nice.

You're going to tell me it's not for sale now, aren't you?

No, it's for sale.

Oh, it is for sale?

Yes.

I'm not going to tell you it's not for sale, it is for sale.

And you're going to tell me it's probably got about 200 pounds on it?

No, I think we can do that around the 60 mark.

Oh, really?

When you say-- when you say around the 60 mark, well, how around?

Well, I've told you where I want to be, you tell me where you want to be.

Oh.

OK.

I like that though.

It's golden oak, isn't it?

And it would have been some kind of retailers or display cabinet originally?

Probably on a shop counter or something like that.

Yeah, displaying some goods of some description.

That is nice.

NARRATOR: Spot on you two.

What's next?

Oh, did you use this to while away the hours when you're in the shop?

Yeah, when we have nothing to do.

[SOUND EFFECTS] NARRATOR: Once the largest toy manufacturers in Britain, the brand is synonymous with high quality tin plate children's toys.

This is a popular Triang Puff-Puff.

So what have we got on the Puff-Puff?

Well, I'd like around 35.

See to me, that's 30 to 50 pounds at auction.

And I like it.

25 if it helps you.

Oh.

OK.

So what can we do for Puff-Puff and the cabinet.

65 for the two.

For the two?

- For the two.

- Really?

Yeah.

I am not going to haggle at that.

I think there's a better way-- Jim-nasium, I am happy.

65 pounds.

NARRATOR: Thanks, Jim.

40 pounds for the golden oak display cabinet and 25 pounds for the Triang Puff-Puff.

Puff.

That's the end of the shopping for today.

It's all about threads you know.

I've got the magic corduroys on.

Ah, well done.

The needle cords keep.

You haven't really deviated away from the corduroys.

I know.

As I was packing my bag I was saying, you know I seem to have got stuck in the rut here.

NARRATOR: I think it's time for a rest.

Nighty-night.

What a beautiful morning.

How are we today you two?

And, are you going to change it-- what gear are you in?

I'm in second.

Are you going to change up?

It's the preferred-- my preferred gear selection.

But if you change up you won't sound quite so sort of-- Yeah, but I don't want to label with the engine.

This is a modern problem.

Everybody seems to change up gear.

NARRATOR: All right, keep your hair on.

Here's a reminder of what our road trippers have bought so far.

Christina has four lots.

The vintage kitchen rack, the angle lamp, the golden oak display cabinet, and the Triang Puff-Puff.

She has 194 pounds and 92 pence for the day ahead.

Of course, James is saving his cash like a squirrel hoarding his nuts for winter.

He's spent just 35 pounds on a carpet, leaving him with a colossal 581 pounds and 50 pence.

Lordy.

Lots of cash.

Lots of cash to spend.

Loads of cash.

Loads of ca-- but with cash comes pressure you see.

NARRATOR: Never a truer.

Gentleman Jim is dropping Christina in Knutsford.

Have a lovely day.

Same to you.

Same to you.

Bye.

Bye.

NARRATOR: We'll return to Christina later, but for now, let's stick with Mr. Braxton.

Spring has sprung.

I've got loads of money in my pocket.

I've got a spring in my step.

All that lies ahead of me is antiques and profit.

NARRATOR: You hope.

James is making his way to the sunny village of Lostock Gralam in Cheshire.

With a wallet stuffed with notes, James is going to try his luck in here.

Oh, that looks good.

Lostock.

NARRATOR: Yan is the owner of this fine shop.

James.

Yan, nice to meet you.

Good to meet you.

I like a nice jumbly shop, if that's not too rude.

No, it isn't.

NARRATOR: Moneybags Braxton has 100s to spend.

So what'll tickle his fancy in here?

Yan, I'm going to have a good old-- You have a mooch around, but don't trip over anything.

All right.

I'll try not to trip over anything.

Hey, this is unusual.

What's this?

It's a library table.

So you've got a nice bit of specimen marble here, haven't you?

And then you've got a revolving-- I just put me videos in there.

Little bits.

Yeah.

Probably fit a miniature box.

NARRATOR: Multi-purpose item.

Looks 19th century.

Lovely little marble top for your glass or vino, and space for a library underneath, or maybe some nibbles.

Nice.

And where do you think it comes from, Yan?

French.

French?

Yeah.

It's got that look about it.

It's chunky.

It's chunky.

It's typically French, isn't it?

Yes.

A bit showy.

NARRATOR: James thinks it needs a bit of elbow grease.

We're adding value.

We're adding value, Yan, aren't we?

Giving it a nice polish.

I'm looking for a maid.

It looks-- it's come up.

It's looking rich now.

I don't know if I should have done it.

I'm adding value before I've even done the price.

What's your price, chief?

I can do you 40 pounds.

- Go on.

- Thank you.

--indeed.

It is cash from you, isn't it?

Of course it is.

Cash is king.

Cash is king.

NARRATOR: He's not really making a dent in his huge budget, but he's still on the mooch for more.

In that cupboard there's sets of-- it's all coins.

Well, let me have a look in the coins.

NARRATOR: Prepare yourself dear viewer.

When you get to my age, you know you remember the adage, any fool can be uncomfortable.

Oh, there we are.

Lucky, I'm a yogic master.

NARRATOR: Yeah, very lucky.

Look at this.

What's in here?

All old pennies.

All old pennies?

Blimey-o-riley.

Look at that.

There is some old pennies in there.

Do you think there's some value for old pennies?

The only ones I'm missing are 1933, but I think they're all accounted for in there.

They're worth about 10,000 each.

Really?

Do you think 10,000 in here?

No.

193-- have you we checked them?

Have you checked them?

Let's check some of them, but you get fed up looking at all the old.

God that's a punt, isn't it?

NARRATOR: It is.

Pennies from 1933 are extremely rare and worth a small fortune because the Royal Mint had a surplus from the previous year.

It is believed that less than 10 penny coins were ever minted.

Oh.

Yeah.

NARRATOR: Steady on there old fruit.

That is a weight, isn't it?

NARRATOR: After closer inspection, James seemed very interested in his weighty batch of pennies.

How much do you want for this here?

15 pounds.

15 pounds?

So you got that in weight, you'll get that in scrap.

Well, it's a bit of fun, isn't it?

I'm going to buy them.

Yan, thank you actually.

Thank you.

You'll have to wash your hands afterwards.

I know, god, I'm getting grumpy aren't I?

NARRATOR: The 19th century French table and the massive collection of old pennies for 55 pounds.

Look, Yan is even helping James to the car.

That's what you call service.

Step this way, Yan.

Thank you.

Into the motor.

NARRATOR: Meanwhile, let's return to Christina in Knutsford.

Established in 1995 by owner David, Knutsford Antiques is where she's headed.

This fine emporium is absolutely packed full of goodies.

Our girl has just under 200 pounds to spend.

This is quite interesting.

We've got a carve of what looks like, sort of, possibly Jade or Nephrite bowl here.

Which is really rather lovely, isn't it?

Can you imagine cargo sticking out in the late?

Oriental agate bowl and stand.

I don't think it started life with the stand, but it certainly sits quite nicely on it, doesn't it?

That's quite lovely.

God, what is it worth though?

I mean, the oriental market, especially the Chinese market, is incredibly buoyant at the moment.

But that's a bit of a risk, isn't it?

NARRATOR: Priced at 125 pounds, it's vendor is a chap called Malcolm.

But let's ask David if there's a deal to be done.

Do you think Malcolm might nudge under 100?

What do you think?

100?

Over 100?

What do you think?

I don't know what it's-- I honestly, I don't know what it's worth.

Well, to get down to 100 from where he's asking would really be pushing the boat out for Malcolm.

What we'll do for you, we'll match what Malcolm would go for.

And that would take it to-- that would take it just below the 100 for you.

Oh, would it?

Yeah.

I think I'd be tempted at that.

Gets it down to 95 for you.

If it doesn't sell-- if it doesn't sell for profit, David, I'll have to come back and say, David.

We did the best, and that's how it goes.

Yeah.

It's quite interesting, isn't it?

- I think you'd be OK. - Do you think?

Definitely.

So, yeah.

It's worth it.

That's for sure.

It it's a lovely thing, isn't it?

NARRATOR: Thanks, David.

With a combined discount of 40 pounds, that gamble buy has just left Christina with a few pennies under 100 pounds.

Now let's find James.

This Jaguar is absolutely lovely to ride.

Just sings along.

It's like a very large sewing machine.

I mechanically connected with it.

NARRATOR: Whatever you say, chief.

James is making his way to the Cheshire town of Frodsham.

Gary Barlow was born here you know.

Take that for a fact.

If I get there.

It's like wrestling with a Minotaur, that seatbelt.

NARRATOR: If you say so.

Hampton Village and Antiques is his next shopping rendezvous.

Owned by Dave and Michelle, James has got over 520 pounds to spend in here.

What I'm looking for is something unusual.

Novelty always sells.

This is interesting because as soon as I pick it up, it's heavier than I thought it might be.

Which is always a good sign.

Good sign of quality.

It's made of silver, and we got-- we got marks here.

NARRATOR: This card case is typical of the 19th century silversmith John Millwood Banks, and is priced at 145 pounds.

I think it must be a visiting card case, wouldn't you?

Yes.

It more than likely is as you say.

I don't know, what could that be?

Something cheap, like 80?

Well, to give you a fighting chance, I think 80 sounds a fair price.

Well, I'm definitely going to buy that, Dave.

NARRATOR: Finally, he's spending bigger.

Anything else tempt you?

These are rather handsome.

What have we got here?

So we've got a pair of Japanese Satsuma, and they've probably got samurai, or geisha girls.

Satsuma is a Japanese earthenware.

Unusually for the Orient, you know, they had this fabulous trade secret of porcelain for about 1,000 years, the Chinese and the Japanese.

Really nice, isn't it?

Yeah.

Big fellas.

NARRATOR: This pair of vases are from the turn of the last century.

They've survived pretty well for such a large size.

And the price for each is 55 pounds.

So we got these two vases being sold separately.

Yeah.

I think they're a pair.

You know, we got two samurai, or the pattern, the decorations totally right.

The bases are exactly right.

They're a pair.

And samurai though.

I'll have to-- I'll have to ask Dave his reasoning for the separation.

NARRATOR: Oh, Dave.

Oh, Dave.

Is this a new retail trend here?

Do you find they sell better singly there?

Sometimes people only prefer to take a single item.

They may not have room in a modern house for something like that.

What could they be for the pair?

Because I'd hate to see them-- Well, we've got a modest 55 on each at the moment.

Modest.

Modest.

Yeah.

I'm sure we can do something better than that, James.

What could you do, chief?

Make it 70 for the two.

Thank you, I'll take those.

Thank you very much indeed.

So that's-- have you got the silver-- Indeed, I have.

Excellent.

Excellent.

NARRATOR: Interesting buys there, James.

150 pounds for the silver card case and the pair of Satsuma vases.

With all the shopping complete, James is going to take the motor for a spin.

Back to Christina, she's made her way to Anderton, near the village of Northwich.

It is home to a marvel of Victorian engineering, which was the first of its kind in the world.

Christina is meeting with Visitor Manager Graham Wood to find out about what is often called The Cathedral of the Canals.

Welcome to Anderton Boat Lift.

Why, thank you.

I mean, it looks like a seriously magnificent structure, but I've just got a feeling we're only seeing a very small part of it here.

Yes, you are.

If you'd like a better look, we can go down into the ground.

- Into the ground?

- Yes.

Let's do it.

Let's go.

NARRATOR: One of the seven wonders of Britain's waterways, this giant iron spider structure was designed by engineer Edwin Clark, and officially opened in 1875.

The Anderton Boat Lift was built to solve the expensive dilemma of transporting pottery from Staffordshire to Cheshire.

The predicament engineers faced was that the canals and river were at vastly different heights.

This is the closest point that the Trent and Mersey Canal and the River Weaver come together.

It was put here because there wasn't enough room.

It wouldn't be feasible to put a flight of locks in because they haven't got the room to do it.

OK. And a Mr. Edwin Clark, who had built a boat lift down in a dock in London, was asked to build the boat lift.

- Is it still in use?

- It is.

Can we have a go?

We certainly can.

All right.

Let's go.

NARRATOR: The Anderton Boat Lift was a revolutionary solution, and was the world's first hydraulically operated system to raise boats without the need to unload.

Its slashed journey time down from one week on the canal to just one day using the lift.

So then we're in the lift?

Yes, we are.

This is wildly exciting for me.

This is my first lift experience.

Tell me, how is it, because we're coming underneath this here, and obviously they've closed those there, so effectively, now we're just in a big boat bathtub.

Yeah.

It's called a case.

Effectively, it's like a bathtub.

Right.

When the gates drop down, that makes the seal, and once you've done that they drop the wedge.

Right.

And once the wedges drop, that's when the lift is free to move.

So how long will it take us to get to the top?

The lift actually moves at 9 feet a minute, and it's 50 feet and 4 inches between the Trent and Mersey canal and the River Weaver below.

Gosh, 50 feet and 4 inches.

That's, kind of, distance, isn't it?

It is.

NARRATOR: At its peak, upwards of 100 boats travel through the lift daily.

So, we're at the top, we've stopped moving.

What happens now?

Well the operator will ask the gentleman in the control room to fill the entire space with water, and then they'll take the gates up into the air to allow us to pass out.

NARRATOR: In the 19th century, local industry enjoyed a boom in their fortunes, thanks to this groundbreaking design.

From its original practical use for transporting goods, it now attracts enthusiasts from all over the world as a jolly lovely day out.

We can't have both sets of gates up at any one time, because if we did, we'd empty the canal for quite some way.

Oh, that wouldn't be a good move.

I'm not sure the swans and the ducks would be very happy about that.

NARRATOR: They certainly wouldn't.

After you.

Very smooth isn't it?

It is, yes.

NARRATOR: This working monument of our great engineering past was declared structurally unsound in the 1980s, but was saved by local campaign and a 7 million pound restoration project in 2002.

Although Edwin Clark created similar boat lifts in Europe, Anderton remains the benchmark and the most famous of them all.

Well, with all the shopping complete, James and Christina are cozy in the jaguar So I am really warming to the car.

Really warming to the car, and this kind of lifestyle, actually.

It's very nice, isn't it?

Cocooned in leather and walnut.

NARRATOR: Yes, we all like a bit of leather.

Anyway, time for some well-earned shuteye.

Prepare yourselves, the third leg's auction news.

Our pair have made their way to the city of Liverpool for their antique showdown.

This is third auction.

Yeah.

A bit of decider.

Goodness.

NARRATOR: Today's auction is taking place at Cato Crane Auctioneers.

Christina has spent 185 pounds on five lots.

James, even though he was brimming with cash, has been fairly frugal.

He spent 240 pounds also on five lots.

What's the verdict on one another's buys, please?

Look at that Puff-Puff.

Puff.

Puff.

Well, I don't think it has a lot of puff, I'm afraid.

25 pounds?

Come on, Christina, I thought we are an antique show.

I'm not worried about that one.

Now this is a fantastic box of coins.

I mean, it's full of pennies, and you even got some sixpences is in here.

For 15 pounds, I'm worried.

NARRATOR: John Crane is today's auctioneer.

What does he think of today's offerings?

The dreaded carpet.

I'd be worried about it making good money.

It's very worn and it's very pale.

We'll see what happens.

The item I think that'll do the best would be the Jade bowl.

Despite its color, I think it's going to do very well.

NARRATOR: Let's get comfy.

The auction is about to begin.

Today, we're also open to internet bidders.

Look at you scurrying in.

Oh.

Here we go.

You excited?

[MUMBLING] Come on.

Rubbish.

Rubbish.

NARRATOR: First up, the auctioneers top pick, Christina's Jade bowl.

50 pounds to start with.

Cliffhanger.

50 is bid.

50 is bid in the room.

Are you bidding now?

60, 70, 80.

80.

This could be the one, Christina.

100.

90 pounds is bid.

100.

And 10.

Stay in tens.

110.

He's keen.

He's getting 110.

120 anywhere?

110 pounds.

Are you in again?

120 is bid.

120.

130 with you again now.

Gentleman standing at 130 pounds.

This time.

[GAVEL STRIKE] NARRATOR: Not bad.

Nice little earner.

I think you did well.

Well done.

Thanks.

First profit.

First profit.

--paid off.

Sort of.

NARRATOR: It's James next, with the large pair of Satsuma vases.

- They're quite big.

- They are quite big.

Aren't they?

Big and ugly.

I wasn't going to say that, but you said it sunshine.

Big and ugly.

20 pounds to start her off.

Oh, ouch.

Oh, dear.

Was it at 20?

20 is bid.

22, 22, 24, 26, 26, 28, 28.

He's gangster.

Ferocious bidding.

30 anyone?

28 pounds.

30, 30, 30.

One more.

32.

32 pounds.

34 if you like.

34, 34.

36, 36.

36 pounds.

All done-- I'm hemorrhaging money.

Good.

--last.

[GAVEL STRIKE] NARRATOR: Oh, dear.

That's disappointing.

- Se la vie.

- Se la-- I've got money to burn.

Exactly, and I need to burn it frankly.

NARRATOR: Now, now, you two.

It's Christina's angle lamp next.

20 pounds is bid.

Well, 26 is bid on the internet.

Wow.

26.

Is there 28 anywhere in the room?

28 anyone?

28.

Yes, got a bidder behind.

30 is bid on the internet.

32, sir.

34.

It is so funky.

That's site is roaring away.

40.

42 on the net.

45 is bid.

50 is bid.

It's your day.

It's your day.

Gentlemen standing in the room at 50.

[GAVEL STRIKE] OK.

I'll take that.

That's very good.

30 pounds.

Phew.

NARRATOR: Nice one, Christina.

Could this be your lucky day?

Watch out, James.

I'm coming up behind you.

NARRATOR: Looks like it.

Steady yourself, James.

It's your silver card case next.

Don't start it at 30 p-- We're starting at 30 pounds.

Starting at 30.

Anybody?

Come on.

30 is bid right away.

35, 40, 45, sir.

45, 50.

Yes or no?

No.

45 is your bid, sir.

Go on, John.

Just over my-- 45 pounds.

Done and finished.

[GAVEL STRIKE] Sold.

At 45 pounds.

NARRATOR: Uh oh.

The tide seems to be turning for James.

Not in a good way.

Christina, stop laughing.

- No, I'm not laughing.

- --are laughing.

I'm feeling your pain.

I'm feeling-- You're laughing.

NARRATOR: Oh dear.

Now for Christina's vintage kitchen rack.

10 pounds is-- 10 pounds he's got.

It's not a lot of money.

I think they're absolutely wonderful.

Nostalgic.

They're great.

10 pounds early.

Give me 12 somebody.

Anybody give me 12?

Gentleman down there, 10 pounds is bid.

[GAVEL STRIKE] NARRATOR: But it's still a profit for our girl.

10 pounds.

That's very good.

Double my money.

Double your money.

NARRATOR: Talking of money, James' collection of pennies is next.

This might be your first profit of the day?

Oh.

Come on.

Who'll start me at a penny?

What?

Oh, bid.

I've got a bid of a penny.

Right.

5 pounds for the whole lot?

A penny each, I really meant to say, actually.

Ferocious bidding.

OK 5 pounds is all bid.

6 over there.

7 the gent.

8, 9, 10.

Get a rhythm.

Coming in.

10 a penny.

9 pounds there.

10 with you?

9 pounds well, any further bid?

Holding at 9 pounds gentlemen my left.

Oh, no.

Over sale?

[GAVEL STRIKE] NARRATOR: Oh, no.

Yet another loss for James.

Unbelievable.

I thought that was worth much more than that.

So did I, that's why I bought them.

NARRATOR: That's the general idea.

Christina's Triang Puff-Puff now.

- 20 pounds?

- 20 pounds.

He's trying to get 20 pounds.

15 if you like then.

Who's in it?

15 is bid.

15.

I've got-- Too much.

Too much.

15 standing in the room.

Do you want-- 16, 16 on the net.

17, 18.

On the net at 18.

18.

Make it 20 on here now.

Do you want 22, Mrs. A?

22 is bid in the room.

24?

- 24.

Net hey.

You're on the verge of greatness.

--on the net?

22 pounds in the room.

Standing.

Nice thing.

[GAVEL STRIKE] NARRATOR: That's a shame.

Someone's got a good buy there.

I'm not smiling.

Yet so far.

I'm not smiling.

Much.

NARRATOR: Maybe the room will love your little French table, James.

20 is bid.

20 pounds is bid there.

Any further bid?

It's nice.

20, 25, 30, 35, 40.

Hey, perfect.

45, 50, 55.

50 pounds for the little stand.

Come on, John.

Go on.

50 pounds then.

All done.

[GAVEL STRIKE] Perfect.

Man, that's very good, isn't it?

NARRATOR: Thank goodness.

Your first profit of the auction.

Hasn't been my lucky day today.

Not yet.

There's still a chance.

Still a chance.

NARRATOR: Next, Christina's golden oak display cabinet.

20 pounds is bid.

30, 30, 40, 50, 60.

I'm selling with you.

55.

55.

55.

55 pounds now.

Any further advance on 55 pounds now for the last time?

[GAVEL STRIKE] There we go.

NARRATOR: Yet another profit for Christina.

So that'll go to a nice little tea shop or some trendy bar.

NARRATOR: James' is heriz red carpet is the final lot.

Would you have it in your house?

Course I would.

I'd clean it first.

Yeah.

20 pounds.

Come on ladies and gentlemen.

Anyone?

Nobody at 20?

Thank you.

20 pounds.

20 pounds.

Crying over that.

Really?

OK I'm going to sell it.

I'm going to sell it.

It's a lot of carpet for the money.

But 20 pounds, it's going to be sold.

Thank you, sir.

20 pounds.

[GAVEL STRIKE] - Sold.

Oh, dear.

NARRATOR: Sad face Braxton.

I made one loss.

You made one loss.

You made one profit.

I made one profit.

Very balanced.

- Should we get back to Bolton?

Yeah.

I think I'll go.

- Come on.

Let's go get-- NARRATOR: How the mighty have fallen, hey James?

Time for the calculations.

James began with 616 pounds and 50 pence, and after auction costs made a loss of 108 pounds and 80 pence.

He has 570 pounds and 70 pence for the penultimate leg.

Christina started the third leg with 284 pounds and 92 pence.

She has made a profit of 33 pounds and 94 pence after costs.

This makes Christina today's auction winner.

She has 318 pounds and 86 pence for the next leg of the trip.

Out into the sunshine.

Why are you so happy?

Isn't Liverpool the most amazing place in the world?

NARRATOR: Cheer up, James.

You're still in the lead.