BBC Antiques Road Trip star Izzie Balmer shares ‘heartwarming’ update on career: ‘Delighted’
Auctioneer and presenter Izzie Balmer has shared a career announcement which has left her “delighted”.
The 36-year-old Antiques Road Trip and The Travelling Auctioneers star recently made a statement on the two popular shows, commenting on her career future.
She expressed how filming the two BBC shows are “the highlight” of her year, adding that she looks forward to bringing new “heartwarming stories” to screens.
The Travelling Auctioneers debuted in 2022, and has just been recommissioned for a fourth series, with 20 episodes.
Balmer will be joined by fellow antiques experts JB Broad and Bee Harford, along with restoration specialists JJ Chalmers, Robin Johnson, Lauren Wood and Saf Fakir.
Antiques Road Trip, which has been on screens since 2010, is also coming back for its 31st series.
Balmer commented: “Filming these shows is truly the highlight of my year, so I’m delighted that they’re both coming back for more riveting journeys and heartwarming stories on BBC One.
“I meet so many people out and about who tell me how much Antiques Road Trip and The Travelling Auctioneers mean to them.”
“These are reliable, comforting shows that, even after so many series, continue to deliver fresh twists and surprise even the most ardent of viewers.”
She concluded: “We love making them just as much as the audience loves watching them – so roll on the new series!” Hello Magazine reports.
Balmer first appeared on screens in an episode of Bargain Hunt, where she stood in for her boss, who was supposed to have been making an appearance on the show.
She went on to appear in Flog It!, after which BBC producers asked her to join Street Auction as a co-presenter.
Reflecting on her career, Balmer commented previously: “As both an auctioneer and a Bargain Hunt expert, it’s all about the people and the fun we have along the way.”
Speaking to the BBC, she continued: “When you really do spot that hidden treasure and you know it’s going to make a great profit and you then see the excitement and delight on the contestants’ and clients’ faces as it goes under the hammer at auction – it’s simply wonderful!”
She also explained how she “fell into” the industry, adding: “Upon completion of my geography degree at Durham University I realised I had no clue what I wanted to do.
“I got a part-time job in a vintage shop while I ‘figured’ out what my future might hold for me; nine months later and I was none the wiser.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
BBC Antiques Road Trip star opens up on ditching auction room for surprise new career move: ‘Out of my comfort zone!’BBC Antiques Roadshow guest ‘speechless’ as expert slaps £25k+ value on items despite ‘appalling’ conditionBBC Antiques Roadshow expert stuns guest as she puts four-figure sum on £1 car-boot purchase: ‘Good grief!’
“My mum suggested I do some work experience at a local auction house. After two weeks’ work experience the auction house offered me a job and the rest, as they say, is history.”
When asked about the most profit and biggest loss she’s ever made at auction, Balmer recalled: “On Bargain Hunt, profit-wise it’s got to be the Charles Horner brooch that made over £100 profit.
“Greatest loss? I’ve honestly no idea as I’m a positive person and don’t like to dwell on negatives.”