“You’re out on the Net, the bid’s in the room. Fair warning, the hammer is up. Sold!” How often have we heard those words? Certainly, for some of us, it will have been in the auction room, but more likely for others on television – as many will have enjoyed viewing such programmes as ‘Flog It’ or ‘Antiques Road Trip’ and ‘Bargain Hunt’.

What we do not see is what goes on behind the scenes before each sale item is given its lot number and the auctioneer takes to the rostrum.

Well, now we all have the opportunity to find out. ‘Behind the Scenes at Mendip Auction Rooms’ is the latest in the series of Winter Talks at Camerton Community Hall. Presented by Nicky Houston BA (Hons) MRICS GA Cert, the Senior Valuer at Mendip Auction Rooms; all will be revealed.

Nicky has vast experience, having worked at Bonhams in Henley-on-Thames and at the very top end of the retail sector of the market in Bond Street, London and also at Newbury as a paintings specialist. Having progressed to study gemmology, Nicky is now certified by the Gemmological Association and can accurately value the ring, necklace or picture left to you.

Nicky quite correctly mentions the changing market trends and laws that affect the items being presented for sale; every day is different with little or no prior knowledge of items being brought to the auction room. And of course, what item should go into which sale to achieve the best price.

Nicky will be at Camerton Community Hall to present her talk on Friday, 27th March at 7 p.m. (doors are open from 6.30 p.m.). There will be a small admission charge payable at the door and this will include coffee or tea and a biscuit during the interval. All proceeds will be for the hall maintenance funds. All are welcome to what is most certainly going to be a very interesting and entertaining talk.

Perhaps I can take this opportunity to mention the forthcoming Camerton Community Hall, Gala Week. This will take place during August and events are being organised to commemorate the 70th year of the closure of Camerton New Pit Colliery in 1950 and the opening, forty years ago, of the Community Hall in 1980.

Further details will be published during the summer. Nicky and her colleagues will be at the hall during the Gala Week and people will be invited to bring their treasures or family heirlooms for valuation. For details, contact Bryn on: 01761 471350. Cyril James