BBC Antiques Roadshow host gasps over value of ornament that gives her 'nightmares'

Antiques Roadshow host Fiona Bruce was left proclaiming “goodness me” after learning the value of a rather peculiar-looking statue.

The hit BBC show returned for another episode on Sunday (September 15) with Fiona Bruce back at the helm. For this week’s instalment, the show paid a visit to Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery in west London.

And members of the public were quick to show off their prized possessions to be valued by experts. But things took a shocking turn when Fiona discovered the value of a statue that “gave her nightmares.”

During the show, Fiona chatted to someone from the council, Will, who brought in "prized possesions' from potters The Martin brothers. Will went on to speak about the famous brothers and their impressive collections over the years.

However, it appears Fiona wasn’t a fan of one of the objects. The host called on expert John Sandon and asked him what his thoughts were about the valuation of the objects. He said: "It’s so divisive!”

Fiona then pointed to a peculiar-looking statue and admitted: “Can I confess, I mean, this would give me nightmares!”

Talking about that object, other expert Will said: "It’s probably the highlight of our collection. It’s listed in our catalogue as the Old Man of the Sea. It almost looks like a shell with a face."

Sharing the huge value of the ornament, John said: "There’s one other one like it which was sold a few years ago and was thankfully saved for the nation.

He added: "It’s now in the museum in Plymouth, but it cost the incredible sum of £260,000!” The value left everyone gobsmacked, with Fiona quipping: “Gasps behind me here! Wow! Goodness me.”

John said: "Seriously expenisve creature!" to which Fiona said: "With that valuation you could blow me down with a feather!"

Cemening their importance, John went on: "These are not being sold, they are going to be enjoyed by local residents."

Antiques Roadshows airs every sunday at 8pm on BBC One.