has opened up about her disastrous first day on BBC’s , where she ended up borrowing co-star Philip Serrell’s oversized wellies after an unexpected downpour. The antiques expert has been a familiar face on the beloved daytime show for years, but as it turns out, her introduction to the programme did not go smoothly.
In an interview with the Kate recalled how she was first approached to take part, explaining: “I was the only lady auctioneer at my local saleroom and we were a bit of a novelty back then (it’s going back a bit!), so I was asked to appear on the show as the auctioneer and then quickly followed as an expert.” However, her first day filming did not go to plan. She joked: “I will never forget turning up at my first shoot in my high heels, feeling very proud in my new suit, but the fair we were filming at was outdoors and it rained the entire weekend. I ended up wearing Philip Serrell’s wellies which were three sizes too big!”
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Kate Bliss has revealed the way her first shift on Bargain Hunt went terribly wrong (Image: BBC)
Since that memorable debut, Kate has become a staple on Bargain Hunt. She has also made appearances on other antiques programmes like Flog It, Antiques Road Trip, and Secret Dealers.
While reflecting on what makes Bargain Hunt such a popular show, Kate said: “It has such a great mix of ingredients – the thrill of the treasure hunt, the fun atmosphere of the shopping, and then the jeopardy and rollercoaster ride of the auction, with a dash of antiques facts thrown in.
“I think it is a winning , and in all the years I have been filming it (which is a lot!) each team and each shop brings something different – which keeps it very much alive for me. It’s still a great challenge for us experts!”
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The antiques expert had to borrow one of her co-star’s wellies when it rained (Image: BBC)
Kate’s passion for antiques started at an early age as she grew up watching her father work in the auction business. She eventually followed in his footsteps, developing a keen interest in jewellery and silver, which remains her speciality today.
Despite the challenges that come with travelling for the show, Kate admits she still loves the excitement of discovering new antiques fairs and meeting fresh faces.
“Sometimes we only have a short cuppa in the green room with new contestants before it’s out on the shop floor, so it’s great to quickly strike up a rapport with people and have some fun,” she shared.