The BBC’s beloved programme Shift the Thrift has returned to highlight charitable retail outlets, with a fresh competitive instalment filmed in Chepstow.

Season one, episode nine showcases agricultural students and companions Ella and Issy, alongside secondhand specialists Tom and Terry — a married couple who dedicate themselves to vintage trading.

The compelling renovation programme, fronted by Joanna Page, broadcast on the BBC at 2pm today. In this instalment, two groups receive an hour and a predetermined amount of money to source goods from charity retailers, which they subsequently transform and auction off.

All funds generated from the programme’s acquisitions were directed to the Young Farmers UK organisation.

So, what were some of those remarkable discoveries?

Joanna’s standout acquisition, which unfortunately none of the participants managed to locate, was a Portmeirion dish. Joanna’s selection was an exquisite piece of Portmeirion ceramics priced at just £8, which could have substantially enhanced the competitors’ earnings — yet none of them were attracted to it.

Conversely, a popular piece came from Tom and Ella’s Barkingside sideboard, originally produced in 1920s London, which they acquired for £50 and meticulously stripped and renovated for the auction.

Meanwhile, Issy and Terry also impressed with their renovated Scrabble board, converting a £4 board game discovery into a bespoke storage unit described as an ideal present for someone who enjoys puzzles.

During the work, they received guidance suggesting they should consider how they intended to market the item.

Following this, an auction showdown took place between the two groups, but victory belonged to only one. Which performed more impressively — the renovated Scrabble board or the Barkingside sideboard? The Scrabble board captured buyers’ attention.

In total, the Barkingside sideboard generated £30 in earnings, while the Scrabble board achieved £48. Issy accumulated £43 in total earnings, with Ella reaching £60.

What additionally boosted the amount was Joanna’s clever idea — she actually signed her name on the Scrabble board.

Overall, the programme delivered an engaging display of the remarkable items one can uncover in charity shops, demonstrating how unusual pieces can achieve strong results at auction.