High Wycombe

Joanna Page heads to the historic market town of High Wycombe, where centuries-old traditions sit alongside a thriving charity shop scene.
Going head-to-head are mother-and-daughter duo Liz and Alice, raising money for Great Ormond Street Hospital – a cause that is deeply personal to them after Alice received a life-saving heart transplant there as a child.

With £100 each to spend and just 60 minutes on the clock, they split up with expert thrifters Tom and Terry to scour the town for hidden gems.
Liz begins with a clear plan: focus on quality ceramics and dependable fashion labels. Her steady approach quickly yields premium high-street brands and traditional pottery pieces that she believes will attract reliable bidders. But her preference for safe buys means she overlooks Joanna’s pick of the day – a delicate Japanese Kutani sake bottle with strong collector appeal.

Alice, meanwhile, admits to being indecisive, and her hesitation costs her precious early minutes. After browsing several shops without committing, she finally finds momentum with a vintage leather handbag and a classic wool coat. With time slipping away, she and Tom make a dramatic dash to an out-of-town furniture warehouse, only to lose their bearings as the clock ticks down. In a bold final move, Alice stakes her remaining budget on a substantial mid-century Singer sewing machine, a risk that could either secure victory or sink her chances.

For the upcycling challenge, Liz selects a modest wooden desk organiser which is transformed into a vibrant statement piece by expert upcycler Tristan. Alice’s sewing machine cabinet, meanwhile, is carefully restored, stripping back decades of wear to reveal its original character and craftsmanship.

At the live-streamed auction, family rivalry bubbles to the surface. Liz proves composed and persuasive, confidently pitching her items and helping bidders picture them in their homes. Alice counters with passion and determination, particularly when presenting her larger gamble to the online audience.

When live sales and online totals are combined, it’s a tense and emotional finish. But beyond the competition, the real triumph is the impressive sum raised for Great Ormond Street Hospital – proof that courage, conviction and a little thrifting nerve can go a long way.