Philip Serrell, the much-loved expert from BBC's Bargain Hunt, has secured his spot as a fan-favourite since he first graced our screens in the shows debut back in 1999. Known for his sharp wit and extensive knowledge of antiques, Philip's career in auctioneering kicked off in an episode shot in Malvern more than two decades ago.
Before stepping into the auction rooms, Philip had initially pursued a career in physical education. Reflecting on a chapter from his past life, he once revealed: "Well, I qualified as a PE teacher but I think those days might be long gone; probably something to do with the countryside."
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On X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Philip displays his humorous charm. His profile reads: "Auctioneer. Appears on a number of BBC antique shows and not an antique but very much mid-century. Author. Petrolhead. Miserably failed PE Teacher," showcasing his self-deprecating humour about his short-lived stint as a PE instructor.
Now at 70, the seasoned pro has applied his sharp eye to more than just livestock auctions, having jumped into the world of antiques after qualifying as a chartered surveyor in 1988. Beyond wielding the gavel, Philip has embraced his role as an author, penning three books that offer a peek into his life and times in the trade.
His foray into publishing started with An Auctioneer's Lot, allowing readers to explore the beginnings of his eventful journey, and his storytelling flair continues to captivate in his subsequent release, Sold to the Man with the Tin Leg.
Philip, who was once a teacher, is now a star in the world of auctioneering, captivating readers with his 2021 memoir What Am I Bid? My Life Under the Hammer, reminiscent of charming countryside anecdotes akin to those of James Herriot and Gervase Phinn. His website shines light on his journey from teaching to taking up the auctioneer's gavel, reports OK!.
"After completing a Bsc at Loughborough University, he actually started his working life as a PE and Geography teacher," the site reveals. "However after realising this was most definitely not the career for him, he began to pursue auctioneering."
Starting from the bottom, his first role in the trade was anything but glamorous. Philip had to start by "His first job saw him cleaning out the cattle pens at a local livestock market, working for the Bromyard-based firm Bentley Hobbs and Mytton," says the site.
It's also shared that it was during these years that Philip acquired a wealth of knowledge: "Here he gained a huge amount of experience working with some very interesting characters." His tenacity and hardworking nature eventually led to bigger opportunities: "After a few years, Philip was able to set up business on his own, establishing Philip Serrell Auctioneers and Valuers in 1995."
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