Birmingham Town Hall auction: Signed Joan Armatrading vinyl, Steven Knight Peaky Blinders script and The Specials art

10.30am Monday 15th December

A COPY of the first Peaky Blinders script signed by show creator Steven Knight is amongst three lots being auctioned to support the refurbishment of Birmingham Town Hall.

Richard Winterton Auctioneers will handle the sale at The Lichfield Auction Centre on Monday, December 15, with all proceeds from the three lots going to the Amplify Town Hall appeal, helping preserve, celebrate and secure the future of one of Birmingham’s most iconic music and performance venues.

The three extraordinary lots, generously donated by some of the UK’s most celebrated cultural figures, feature as Lots 401, 402 and 403 in the Antiques & Home Sale on December 15, and are expected to go under the hammer at approximately 10.30am.

Lot 401: Joan Armatrading, signed vinyl of How Did This Happen and What Does It Now Mean

Joan Armatrading, Birmingham-born singer-songwriter and ambassador for Amplify Town Hall, has donated a signed copy of her 2024 album, her 21st studio release.

Praised for showcasing her signature style and multi-instrumental mastery, the album reflects a world of uncertainty through Armatrading’s unique perspective.

“My first ever experience of live music was at Birmingham Town Hall,” Armatrading said.

“I’m delighted to be an Amplifier for the project, helping preserve the historic past and creating a sustainable future for generations of artists and audiences to enjoy.

“Local venues like Town Hall are the lifeblood of our music culture.

“They’re where artists find their voice, where communities come together, and where unforgettable memories are made.”

Lot 402: Steven Knight, signed Peaky Blinders script for series one, episode one

Award-winning writer and director Steven Knight has donated a signed script of Peaky Blinders Series One, Episode One, along with a cast photo, also signed by Steven. Knight, whose premieres for Peaky Blinders Series Five and his 2024 series This Town were held at Town Hall, reflects on the venue as “the heart of Birmingham… I love it, I love this building.”

Lot 403: Horace Panter, The Spirit of ’79 fine art print, signed and framed edition

Horace Panter of The Specials and The Dirt Road Band has donated a signed edition (one of just 50 copies) of The Spirit of ’79, framed and valued at £500.

The artwork is a tribute to The Specials and their beginnings in 1979.

Panter emphasises the importance of live music venues: “Live performance is the bedrock of the music scene, from youngsters learning their craft to seasoned professionals touring major venues.

“It is a community. Music brings people together.

“Anything that promotes venues, by support, maintenance, refurbishment, safety, access, is an asset to the city.”

The catalogue for the auction will go live online a week before the sale via our Auction Calendar.

Viewing in person at The Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, WS13 8NF, is on Friday, December 12, between 10am and 4pm.

Bidding takes place online before and during the sale, live in the saleroom, and on the telephone by prior arrangement.

For any enquiries, email office@richardwinterton.co.uk or call 01543 251081.

Auctioneer Richard Winterton said: “Amplify Town Hall is a fantastic project celebrating the incredible cultural legacy of this much-loved Birmingham landmark.

"It’s remarkable to reflect on how many iconic figures have graced the Town Hall stage in the past 191 years.

"These three special lots have been generously donated for auction by Joan Armatrading, Horace Panter, and Steven Knight.

"Their personal support shows how important Town Hall is to audiences and artists alike.”

B:Music is also launching the B:Lucky Lottery, with tickets going on sale at 12pm on Friday, November 14, via the B:Music website. Participants must be aged 18 or over and resident in Great Britain; click here for full B:Lucky Lottery terms and conditions.

Rachel Cranny, head of development and impact at B:Music, said: “We’re passionate about celebrating Town Hall’s wonderful heritage and protecting its future.

“As the charity entrusted as custodians of this remarkable building, we’re extremely proud to be leading a project that will make Town Hall more accessible for audiences and artists, increase its environmental sustainability, and enhance the concert-going experience for visitors.

“The upcoming auction and lottery are special fundraisers which will play a vital role in raising significant funds for the Amplify Town Hall appeal.

“We would love for as many people as possible to get involved and offer their support in helping us secure the future of this extraordinary Birmingham landmark.

“We truly believe Amplify Town Hall will help to protect and celebrate the past, present and future of this iconic venue.”

Pictured top of page: Auctioneer Richard Winterton with Chris Proctor, head of programme at B:Music, and the lots being sold in aid of Amplify Town Hall.