Anita Manning
Anita Manning | |
|---|---|
| Born | December 1, 1947 Glasgow, Scotland |
| Occupation(s) | Antiques expert, television presenter, auctioneer |
| Years active | 1970s–present |
| Known for | Bargain Hunt, Flog It!, Antiques Road Trip |
Anita Manning (born 1 December 1947) is a Glasgow-born Scottish authority on antiques and a television presenter. Since 2010, she has featured as a specialist and host on the BBC programs Bargain Hunt, Flog It!, and Antiques Road Trip. She holds the distinction of being Scotland’s pioneering female auctioneer.
Career
Manning’s enthusiasm for antiques was sparked during her childhood through her father’s frequent attendance at auctions in Glasgow. Her entry into the antiques trade began in the 1970s after purchasing a bed from an Irish vendor who subsequently offered her a position as a buyer.
Originally educated in physical education with an emphasis on dance at Aberdeen and Edinburgh universities, Manning initially pursued a teaching career before starting her family. As a new mother, she deepened her expertise by acquiring furniture at auctions and then spent approximately three years trading items throughout England and Ireland, often traveling extensively by truck.
In 1989, Manning partnered with her daughter Lala to establish Great Western Auctions, an auction house based in Glasgow. Her son Luke currently holds the roles of director, auctioneer, and valuer within the firm. Manning’s family background also includes periods living in Hong Kong and Australia.
On Antiques Road Trip in 2016, Manning achieved a record for the highest profit margin on a single piece when a Buddha statue purchased for £50 was sold for £3,800—representing a 7,500% gain. This record was later exceeded in 2017 by another item fetching £20,000.