Bargain Hunt lovers will know Anita Manning well. She has become one of the show's most recognisable experts since she started making appearances on the show in 2010. She has also been included on Flog It! and Antiques Road Trip, but the 77-year-old made history early on during her rich career. Her journey into antiques began in the 1970s when a chance arose to work as a buyer, and her love for antiques was also down to her father, who would take her to auctions in Glasgow. Making history, Anita also claims to be the first female auctioneer in Scotland and has been in the business for over half a century.

She initially studied PE and dance before moving her attention to buying and selling furniture. Anita has also been running the Glasgow auction house, Great Western Auctions, since 1989 with her daughter.

Reflecting on her career, Anita voiced her passion for antiques: "For as long as I can remember I have been passionate about Art, Antiques and Auctions.

"The beauty in craftsmanship and design, coupled with the social history of the objects, that I am privileged to handle on a daily basis, has been a continual source of joy.

"The drama and excitement of the auction world has been a most stimulating environment and one I relish being a part of. Great Western Auctions was established in 1989 by myself and my daughter, Lala."

She added: "Although the company has grown enormously over the last 26 years, we still regard ourselves as a family firm providing a personal experience and dedicated service to our clients."

Anita was also known for her recognisable black hairstyle, which was shaped into a bob. However, she has since embraced her natural grey hair and cropped it even shorter in a big transformation.

Fans are also curious about her age due to her vibrant presence on television. She turned 77 last year and will celebrate her 78th birthday at the end of 2025. Outside of her professional career in antiques, Anita is a mother to a son named Luke, who lives in Hong Kong.