The sun shone when BBC 1’s ever-popular Sunday evening programme Antiques Roadshow visited Pembroke Castle on Wednesday.

Crowds of people dusted off their treasurers and had expert opinions from the show’s specialists.

Presenter Fiona Bruce was full of praise for the ionic location.

“This is the first time I have been to Pembroke Castle, but what a wonderful spot it is in this beautiful county,” she told the Observer.

“The best part of working on Antiques Roadshow is that we never know who or what is going to turn up on the day. The visitors, the objects they bring, their stories and the location all combine to make a fabulous experience that we aim to capture for the viewers.”

Pembroke Castle will be featured in two one-hour programmes during the 39th series which will be broadcast over the autumn and winter.

“Holding the Antiques Roadshow in Pembroke Castle was certainly an inspirational choice of venue for this iconic TV programme,” said Mayor of Pembroke, Clr. Dennis Evans.

“Fine dry weather helped to persuade many hundreds of people to come to the castle,” he continued. “Many came just to experience the event, but others could be seen queuing at the relevant locations clutching their much prized family heirlooms.

“Although I was not at the castle in an official capacity, I did take the opportunity to join the throngs of people who flooded in. Many local people attended, along with visitors from further afield.

“I took time out to speak to a number of people and everyone said that it was great that the castle was being used not only to promote the castle itself, but also the town of Pembroke.

“Jon Williams, the castle manager, and the trustees must be congratulated on allowing this prestigious event to grace the castle grounds and when the show is eventually screened on TV, the castle and Pembroke will be seen at its very best.”

Added castle manager Jon Williams: ““We can’t wait to see how it looks on the show when it comes out. It was great fun and we had a huge crowd with some very interesting items brought in. The production team were a pleasure to work with and we’d love them to come back again in a few years time maybe.”

Pics. Martin Cavaney Photography