Celebrity Antiques Roadtrip puts Leigh-on-sea on the map

November 29, 2023

Gemma Collins and Melvin Odoom popped down to Leigh-on-sea Old Town this summer in the newest episode of Celebrity Antiques Road Trip which aired on Tuesday 28th November.

The show which saw Gemma and Melvin paired with James Braxton and Margie Cooper was filmed in June 2023 and showed the pair hunting for antiques which they would later sell at auction.

Cruising the lanes of Essex in a classic red and white Citroen 2CV they visited Baddow Antiques Centre, Magarry's Antiques in Blackmore, Muggeridge Farm in Battlesbridge and Sally's Out of Curiosity in Westcliff.

Whilst visiting Leigh Melvin was joined by local historian Paul Carver who took him through a quick history of the town and its port. Paul also gave Melvin a tour of the Leigh Heritage Centre and Plum Cottage (a historic 207 year old fisherman's cottage). Leigh Heritage Centre is open most days, (volunteers permitting) especially weekends, but it is best to phone first to check opening times – 01702 470834 or email enquiries@leighsociety.com- if you are making a special visit.

Entry to the Centre and Plumbs Cottage is free, but all donations are welcome.

The first record of Leigh-on-sea is in the Doomsday book, which shows a place name of Legra which means (meadow by the sea). Leigh is possibly the oldest port in Britain. In 1588 ships were paid to keep watch for the Armada, and the Spanish Ambassador told Phillip of Spain that Leigh had built 31 vessels that could be armed. In the event a number of Leigh ships with Leigh masters went to fight or assist the English fleet against the Armada.

Gemma met with Andrew from Osbornes Cooking School based in Leigh Broadway and was given a quick demonstration of how to cook lemon sole, which she and the team thoroughly enjoyed.

Both Gemma and Melvin had a very successful day with their antique experts but Gemma pipped Melvin to the post at the auction with the sale of her Baccarat Caviar Bowl.