Channel 4 (UK) Documentaries

The Pawn King (2011x1)

Air date: Jan 14, 2011

There are an estimated 1300 pawn-broking outlets in the UK, compared to just 800 in 2003. In this tough economic climate, pawning is no longer just the preserve of the poor; there is now a new breed of middle class pawner too. Kirsty Garland's film provides a fascinating insight into the pawnbroking business. Paul Aitken is the founder of online pawnbroker Borro, and people are coming to him in increasing numbers to pawn their most treasured possessions. Paul's vaults boast Ferraris, Porsches, Banksys and even a Picasso. Bought during the boom years, these items are now a quick way for their owners to get cash. Paul claims to be transforming pawnbroking's shady image, but with interest rates many times those of the banks, is he just making money from other people's misery? First Cut introduces viewers to Paul, his business and five pawners with very different stories. Mary is the ex-wife of a millionaire. She's pawning a diamond bracelet to tide herself over until her divorce settlement comes through. Pawning is a way of life for unemployed Karen, who loves to shop and pawns her stash of jewellery to get by. Brian is a watch addict, but finances are tight so he has to pawn one of his 24 watches. Cheryl is a cleaner whose husband works two jobs. She plans to pawn her ring to help pay for her grandson's headstone. And Mariola is a Polish divorcee who has lost her job and her home, and may now lose the two rings she has pawned to pay her rent.