Catch up TV

Series 1: 9. Chepstow

Joanna Page heads to the historic border town of Chepstow, where medieval streets, independent shops and a strong charity shop scene set the stage for another fast-paced thrifting showdown. With its famous castle overlooking the River Wye, the town provides a dramatic backdrop for a race where sharp instincts and bold decisions could make all the difference.\n\nTaking on the challenge are friends Ella and Issy, who are competing to raise money for their chosen charities. Armed with £100 each and just 60 minutes on the clock, they are paired with expert thrifters, husband and husband Tom and Terry, and sent out across Chepstow’s charity shops in search of hidden gems that can be turned into profit.\n\nElla opts for a cautious but considered approach, hunting for quality homeware, collectibles and classic fashion pieces with reliable resale appeal. Early finds boost her confidence, including elegant glassware and vintage decorative items that promise steady returns. Issy, meanwhile, embraces a bolder strategy, gravitating towards statement furniture and eye-catching fashion – pieces that could either soar at auction or fall flat.\n\nAs the clock ticks down, tensions rise. A risky spend threatens to blow the budget, and both teams face tough calls about when to stop browsing and commit. Joanna keeps the pressure on, reminding them that hesitation can be just as costly as a bad buy.\n\nEach contestant then chooses one item to be transformed. Rachel’s understated furniture find is refreshed into a stylish, contemporary piece, while Cerys’s more daring choice is given a dramatic makeover by a specialist upcycler, elevating it from charity shop cast-off to standout showpiece.\n\nThe episode builds to a live-streamed auction, where Ella and Issy must sell their collections to an online audience in real time. Nerves are high as bids come in thick and fast, and the balance of power shifts repeatedly. Strong storytelling and confident pitching prove crucial, while one surprise result sends shock waves through the competition.\n\nWhen the final figures are revealed, there is a clear winner on the scoreboard. But the real triumph is the money raised for charity, proving once again that second-hand shopping can deliver real-world impact.

Source: BBC 1