Father and son save town's auction house from fears of redevelopment

A FATHER and son have taken over a well-known Lymington auction house which many locals feared would be converted into luxury housing.

The new owners are vintage toy specialist Nick Powner and his son James. Nick will continue to run his toy-dealing business, Abbey Models, which is based in Christchurch.

The premises, in Emsworth Road, previously run by George Kidner for more than 50 years, will relaunch with their first sale on Thursday 11th July.

Nick (56) said: “We knew many local people were concerned the building would end up converted into luxury flats.

“We’re very happy to have taken over the building and business lock, stock and barrel, and have refurbished the premises inside and out. This included constructing a new wooden rostrum where the auctioneer can wield his gavel.”

In addition to the refurbishment, part of the building will be converted into an antiques centre with space for up to 30 dealers. The pair also hope to develop car and automobilia auctions next year.

Son James (23) said: “The July auction includes three cars, one of which is a scarce 1993 Daimler Double-Six V12 saloon which is valued between £3,500 and £4,000.”

Other notable items include three rare water colours by Nico Jungmann, painted between 1917 and 1920, with one expected to reach over £3,500, and an art-deco bronze female figurine from the 1920s, valued between £400 and £600.

Nick added: “Our valuations are free and are held every Monday at the saleroom. Alternatively we can visit a client’s home, we’re happy to travel anywhere throughout Hampshire and Dorset.

“After our July auction, we’ll be holding two sales in September – a general auction on the 5th and a specialist toy and TV memorabilia sale at the end of the month.”

For more details visit www.lymingtonauctions.co.uk.