The famous Antiques Roadshow entourage hit the town of Battle, site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings today.

Eager crowds started queuing before 7am and there were scuffles and raised voices as enthusiastic pensioners jostled for pole position to enter through the gateway into the grounds of Battle Abbey and Battle Abbey School. Buses and cars bringing visitors, together with the morning rush hour jammed the normally sleepy Battle High Street.

Locals looked on amused at the goings-on while local coffee shops and traders geared up for a punishingly busy day.

The day turned out to be a storming success as many visitors clutching family heirlooms and artefacts from the past found out whether their prized possessions were of value. Battle Abbey was packed with antique enthusiasts from all over the south east.