Paul Laidlaw is best known for his appearances on BBC's and .The expert's enthusiasm for his profession shines through on screen, where he's confessed to being an "antiques anorak". Away from the cameras, the Scottish star runs Laidlaw Auctioneers and Valuers which he launched in 2012. Yet, it's family time that he cherishes most when not at work. Paul is married to Maureen Laidlaw, whom he is believed to have met while collaborating on a project.
Together, they have a daughter and twin sons, with whom Paul loves spending quality time. The family resides in Carlisle, nestled on the edge of Cumbria. For Paul, it's these precious moments with his loved ones that are his favourite pastimes away from his television commitments. Speaking to the , he shared: "When I'm not being an antiques anorak, all I want to do is have fun with my family. Rounders in the park, pitch-and-putt at the golf course, walking in the Lakes, hi-jinks at the pool, that's happy me. Oh, and cooking."
His commitments to his television programmes often require him to travel extensively and spend considerable time away from his loved ones. In a heartbreaking admission, he added: "In truth, I miss my family".
His extensive knowledge of antiques has made him an expert in the field, showcased by record-breaking moments on Antiques Road Trip. Back in 2021, Paul landed a staggering £20,000 profit from a vintage camera, which he bagged for a paltry £60 in a Margate antique shop.
After purchasing the item, he mused over its potential rarity and value, saying: "I think this is a very early camera. If I'm right, that could be quite exciting. The photographic market is very much in the ascent, it's a hot market, I think that's a good thing."
As anticipation built for the Bury St Edmunds auction in Suffolk, auctioneer Edward Crichton was notably impressed by Paul's find, confessing his unfamiliarity with such a distinctive item.
Complete with eagerness, he shared: "The sub-miniature camera - I have never seen one, in fact, we have carried out some research and cannot find any other example which has sold at auction, we were very excited to see this and it has certain potential to make a significant profit.
As bids flew in from all directions, the amount grew increasingly higher. Taken aback, Paul couldn't help but exclaim: "Oh my god," as the figure reached an astounding £20,000.
"Wonderful," Kate voiced loudly, embracing Paul in celebration. Bathing in the success of the sale, an ecstatic Paul proclaimed: "I'm over the moon."