A FAMILIAR face will be sharing insights into his life and career when he visits Newbury’s Corn Exchange this autumn.
Thomas Forrester, a Newbury-based auctioneer who appears on BBC One’s Bargain Hunt, will be sharing some secrets as part of a fundraising evening in aid of the arts centre’s Old Library campaign.
Guests can expect Forrester to share insights into the antiques market, including what is currently selling and what is struggling.
He will also delve into personal stories from his time working in antiques, including fascinating and one-of-a-kind items he has sold, as well as things he couldn’t shift.
Guests can bring a small antique or collectable, with a random selection brought on stage for Thomas to value.
When opened, the Old Library will come home for the Corn Exchange’s creative activities.
To get there, The Corn Exchange needs to raise £2.6 million, with £1 million funded by Greenham Trust, for the acquisition of the building, repairs, and conservation.
Support has also been provided by Adrian Swire Charitable Trust, Backstage Trust, Eling Estate, Englefield Charitable Trust, Foyle Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, GJ Ward Charitable Trust, Mobbs Memorial Trust, Newbury Town Council, Payne Gallwey Charitable Trust, Rivar Ltd and The Syder Foundation, but more is needed.
Jessica Jhundoo-Evans, director of Corn Exchange Newbury, said: “We’re really excited about the Old Library becoming the permanent home for our creative participation work.
“This area of our work provides a lifeline to many local people, with more than 27,000 engagements in 2022/23.
“The Old Library will help us to benefit many more local people with the positive impact that participation with the arts has, increasing engagements to over 40,000 a year.”
The event takes place from 7pm on Wednesday, September 11, at the Corn Exchange in Market Place, Newbury. Tickets cost £16.25.
For more details, or to book, log on to: www.cornexchangenew.com
