Restoration expert and TV presenter Henry Cole believes that Britons have hundreds of millions of pounds worth of valuables hidden in their sheds and garages. Cole, known for hosting World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides, has visited over 1,000 sheds and argues that many people are unaware of the true value of items they have stored away.
According to Cole, concealed private collections include hundreds of vehicles, aircraft, tractors, and motorbikes. He suggests that automotive memorabilia, vintage oil cans, and jugs could fetch significant sums rather than being discarded. Branded examples from Shell, Texaco, and Pratt dating from the 1940s-50s can be worth £2,000 or more, with exceptional pieces selling for over £3,000.
The advice comes after a survey of 2,000 adults found that 65% have items in their sheds they haven't used in years, with an average value exceeding £800. The research, commissioned by BLAZE for its new series Junk & Disorderly, also revealed that 45% of respondents believe they have valuable items in their sheds or garages that they do not use.
Cole said: 'Where Brits go wrong is that a lot of things they're holding onto are worthless... But at the same time, there is millions of millions of pounds worth of automotive related items.' He added that items like G plan and mid-century furniture can also be valuable.
The study found that 59% of people keep items because they might be useful one day, while 34% hold onto them for sentimental reasons. However, 48% said they would only be motivated to sell or discard unused items if they relocated. A quarter admitted they have sold or thrown away something they now believe to be worth a lot of money.
A spokesperson for BLAZE said: 'Adults are far more likely to be sitting on hidden treasures than they realise... We want to highlight just how easy it is to separate genuine gems from everyday clutter.'
