THRIFTY shoppers are seeking bargains at auction.

Marshall’s in Church Hill, Knutsford, said it had seen a significant increase in the number of buyers attending its fortnightly furniture sales.

“People are reappraising good solid period pieces that are relatively affordable,” said Nick Hall.

“Also, the things that they buy of age will retain a value.”

Please register to leave your comments in the 'Your Say' box below.

Readers can also discuss this story in the forum by CLICKING HERE.

Alternatively CLICK HERE to email us

But they are not the only ones. Investors have also started to buy art and antiques rather than stocks and shares, which have seen dramatic falls.

“People who have got money are obviously worried where to put it,” said Mr Hall.

Recently Marshall’s sold two paintings for thousands of pounds more than the artists’ had ever received for previous work. But those hit hardest by the credit crunch are selling personal items.

Marshall’s said the increase in the number of residents trying to raise money had seen the number of lots in its fortnightly general sales top more than 1,000.

“People are trying to release a bit of capital and these sales are absolutely full of affordable pieces,” said Mr Hall.

knutsfordguardian.co.uk