ONE of the country’s hottest young talents in the auction world will be joining the team at Wessex Auction Rooms as the new head valuer.

Isabel Balmer, who appeared alongside Paul Martin on the BBC’s Street Auction programme, moved down from Derbyshire last week to start her new role at the Chippenham auction house.

However, the 29-year-old gemmologist, who is currently living in Bristol, stumbled into the profession following a two-week stint at Hanson’s Auctioneers.

“I sort of fell into the antiques world if I’m honest with you,” the 29-year-old said.

“I got a part-time job in a vintage shop, because I have always loved things that are a little bit different, and I went to university not knowing what I wanted to do.

“My mum suggested I ask for work experience at Charles Hansons and after two weeks there, they offered me a job.

“We had all these lovely things coming in and it was then that I realised that I loved it.”

Miss Balmer, who will work alongside BBC expert Tim Weeks, also wants to introduce more people into the world of antiques and collectables.

“Like everyone here at Wessex, it’s massively important to get people into the sales room. Although most of our sales are online, as an auctioneer, you get such a buzz from a busy sales room and it would be nice to get some new blood involved too.

“I think antiques are viewed as quite old-fashioned but people are missing out. There is so much interest and history surrounding them and you can find some real bargains if you know what you’re looking for, especially if you’re a first-time buyer.”

Miss Balmer, who hopes to hone her skills in other areas such as decorative art and militaria, is also encouraging people to come down and meet her.

She said: “I think I am quite a friendly, bubbly and welcoming person, so come down to Wessex and say hello.”