'Antiques Roadshow' to be filmed on closed set to allow for social distancing

The Antiques Roadshow will go ahead this summer - but will be filmed on a closed set with a small invitation-only audience.

The popular Sunday evening show - in which members of the public bring their family heirlooms to be evaluated by antiques experts - is usually filmed as an open event and large historic venues, such as stately homes and castles.

The BBC has come up with the new production plan to allow for social distancing in a bid to prevent the spread of coronavirus, as the government lockdown eases.

Read more: Coronavirus outbreak sees Question Time's studio audience axed

Presenter Fiona Bruce, 56, said: “Normally we welcome around 5,000 people to each Antiques Roadshow, but of course in these extraordinary times we will have to do things very differently. We’ve come up with a new way to safely film the show yet still bring you amazing items and stories. I can’t wait to see what treasures you have hidden in your homes.”

It will be the first time in over 40 years that the series will be filmed on a closed set.

Robert Murphy, series editor for BBC Studios, said: “To keep everybody safe and comply with current Government and WHO regulations we have planned our filming days very differently this year.

“We won’t be holding large open events, but we will be inviting people who have written in advance to attend.

“Our team of experts are looking forward to seeing your heirlooms and finds so do go to our website and let us know about your treasures. We could be inviting you on the show to find out if that mystery object that’s been gathering dust all these years is actually worth a fortune!”

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The Antiques Roadshow had previously announced its scheduled venues for 2020 - which included Forty Hall in Enfield, London, Culzean Castle in Scotland, Bodnant Garden in Wales and Windermere Jetty in Cumbria.

It is currently asking viewers to get in touch via its website to tell them what treasured possessions they would like to bring to show experts at the proposed venues.

The Antiques Roadshow first aired in 1979. Bruce took over as presenter from Michael Aspel in 2008.

She also hosts the BBC’s topical debate show Question Time which has seen its live audience axed due to coronavirus.