A GROUP of teenage boys have skipped lessons at their exclusive private school and travelled to Darlington to catch a glimpse of their idol.

But surprisingly, the object of their affection is not a leggy blonde pop singer or a supermodel but rather a middle-aged antiques expert with a unique line in banter.

David Dickinson has captured the public's imagination since he shot to fame as the real-life Lovejoy character in charge of the BBC's daytime show, Bargain Hunt.

Now a prime-time success pulling in regular audiences of seven million, Bargain Hunt has become a cult success loved by students and pensioners alike.

David, whose flamboyant clothes have gained him the nickname The Duke, has takes his new-found celebrity status in his stride.

He said: "I have got used to being a celebrity now. People are so nice that it is easy to be pleasant in return.

"When I meet people or get asked for my autograph I always remember that these are the viewers that have put me where I am. It is all down to them."

As if on cue, a woman interrupts to get David's signature and an embarrassed man wanders over and asks for an autograph - stressing that it is for his wife, who would kill him if he let the opportunity pass.

The future looks good for David, he has been approached by numerous companies wanting him to endorse their products and is considering various offers.

He said: "We are going to do some more shows and are talking about doing a week of live programmes next month for Children in Need.

"I'm just enjoying it. I know it could all go as quickly as it came."

The Bargain Hunt team's visit to Darlington caused much excitement in the town and David was happy to return to the North-East.

He said: "We have been here before and I always enjoy visiting the area."

Indeed, the North-East is awash with antiques fairs and car boot sales just perfect for real life bargain hunters.

At Sedgefield racecourse, in County Durham, thousands of people have been flocking to a boot sale twice a week for almost 20 years.

David adds: "As ever, the contestants have picked some really diverse objects. Some will make a profit and others will struggle but we never know until the day.

"That's the beauty of the programme and what keeps people tuning in."