Westland London church showroom and architectural antiques feature in 'This Week'

Posted on | By Shirley Kay
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London East, UK - This week, 'The Take' was filmed at Westland London. This talk is the main feature on 'The Week', a British current affairs and political chat television show, on BBC One every Thursday evening. It is presented by Andrew Neil and covers the panel's views on the news with a touch of humour. The talk is always about one of the big issues of the week by a guest who will then debate it with the panel.

The Westland showroom has a unique base in the former church of St Michael and All Angels in Shoreditch. The church, by architect James Brookes, is Grade I listed and together with the architectural elements and antiques proved to be a stunning backdrop for the talk by historian, David Starkey.

Andrew Neil introduced David by saying: 'some folks are frightened to say anything. They worry they will use the wrong words. Offend people they did not mean to. Set off a Twitter mob or worse against them.'

In the midst of beautiful antique fireplaces, chandeliers, statuary, urns, mirrors and architectural elements the talk then covers David Starkey's view that over the last twenty years there has been a revolution by stealth, not in the streets but in values. Facing the camera and then with a dramatic overhead shot by a red spiral staircase he speaks with a tone of nostalgia.

Remembering a time of shared values, recently portrayed in the film, Darkest Hour. It stars Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill, and the film covers the early days of World War II, which IMDb describes as when the fate of Western Europe hangs with Churchill, the newly-appointed British Prime Minister. It is he who must decide whether to negotiate with Adolf Hitler, or fight on against incredible odds.

David continues his talk surrounded by the stunning Westland backdrop of architectural artefacts: 'Everywhere it's back to the Middle Ages. In the universities, no platforming is a heresy trial without the stake. In law, historic sex abuse has turned from due process into a witch craze. Every accusation proves guilt. Every victim must be believed. This is Salem'. Then to emphasise his point firmly shuts one of the the church doors.

The doors of the church itself finally closed in 1964, ninety nine years after being built. Westland London was destined to make the church its base in 1977. Even in those early days of architectural antique and salvage showrooms they supplied a varied range of original pieces of exceptional quality and style to suit any home and any room. The location has continued to offer a distinctive setting in which to display a growing collection and visitors will find antique fireplaces, panelled rooms, fountains and sculptures presented in their galleries.

Westland had long been saving the past for future generations. From 1969, when the company was first established, by Geoff Westland they specialised in sourcing 18th and 19th century English furniture and decorative elements in England. Then shipped and sold to dealers, architects, designers and individuals in Europe.

Members since 1998, Westland follow the Salvo Code. A code for good practice in stock purchasing which gives greater confidence for customers. Look for architectural salvage and antiques dealers displaying the Crane logo.

This episode of 'The Week' aired on 1st March 2018 but can currently be watched via BBC iPlayer. See the link below. Presenter, Andrew Neil was joined this week by guest politicians past and present, Michael Portillo and Liz Kendall with journalist, Miranda Green.

Historian, David Starkey is well known for his outspoken views which have always been received with both criticism and applause. The serious political views of the show ended with laughter though, when David suggested in a political climate with such polarised views 'there was only one form of government that could hold the balance ... someone that sits on a throne like you' referring to Andrew Neil. In this episode he was sitting on a gilt and red chair like a monarch with absolute power.

By the way for anyone else with imperial ambitions just search 'throne' on SalvoWEB for sale. A current search produces an excellent hand carved throne with columns either side. It comes with lots of character and a past life story. Very sturdy and fit for use. However remember architectural antiques are unique one off pieces so you will need to be quick.






BBC One: This Week
Westland London

Story Type: News