Colchester's Firstsite is host to BBC's Antiques Roadshow

The all-ticket event was packed with people looking to find out if their hidden treasures and family heirlooms were worth a fortune or just to discover more about them.

Those in the queue spoke of their excitement at being part of the prestigious show.

Host - Firstsite was pleased to host the popular BBC One show (Image: Credited)

Barbara, 70, said: “I’m interested to see what is going on. It is unbelievable the number of people.

“I’m not selling anything, but I’m interested in finding out some information on something – a cravat pin.”

Samantha Murray, 55, and husband John, 58, from Colchester, said: “We have an abstract painting that we’re looking to get some background on with regard to the history.

Smiles - John and Samantha Murray (pictured left) stood with their friends as they look to get background on their abstract painting. (Image: Credited)

“We’re local, we walked up from down the road.

We didn’t expect the queue straight away.”

Another couple said: “We’re just observing. It is really exciting to be going to such a well-known event.

“We live a few miles outside of Colchester.”

The Antiques Roadshow specialists were on hand to help, offering advice and valuations to visitors, whether it be household treasures or car boot bargains.

The BBC confirmed earlier in the year the Firstsite gallery, in Colchester city centre, would be one of the venues the show's team would be visiting with presenter Fiona Bruce.

Fiona, 60, said she is "always drawn in by a moving personal story” ahead of filming her 17th series of the show.

Presenter - Fiona Bruce was in attendance at Firstsite for the Antiques Roadshow (Image: Credited)

The show, which was first broadcast in 1979 with presenter Bruce Parker, celebrates its 45th anniversary this year.

Fiona, who joined Antiques Roadshow in 2008, said: “A new series of the Antiques Roadshow begins again and I, for one, can’t wait.

“Travelling the length and breadth of the UK to see what the great British public have pulled out of their attics and off their shelves.

“I know we’ll see items of great quality and value – but I’m always drawn in by a moving personal story too.”