Wheels in motion for auction bid

An auction house is harnessing an unusual part of its expertise after coming across two antique horse carriages.

Cuttlestones Auctioneers, based in Pinfold Lane, Penkridge, have so far failed to find a buyer for the unusual carriages but a private collector could snap them up within days.

The carriages, from Longnor Hall near Church Stretton, in Shropshire, were among some of the antiques up for sale at the auction room's fine art and antique sale on Monday.

Ben Gamble, Cuttlestones owner and auctioneer, has said the carriages are bound to attract interest from both equestrians and collectors.

One is a four wheel Ralli style carriage and the other is a traditional Governess cart and both have been kept in excellent condition.

The Ralli cars were named after the Ralli family, who were Greek shipping magnates, who lived at Ashstead Park, in Surrey.

They could be used with one horse or two or as a team

The Governess Carts were very popular in the Edwardian era, and some are still in use today. They are low slung with a rear door and sideways seats that were ideal and safe for carrying children and would be drawn by a small pony.

Rosie Blackburn, from Cuttlestones, said: "Unfortunately the carriages didn't sell at the auction but a private collector has expressed an interest and is coming to look at them in the next few weeks."

Cuttlestones' next Fine Art & Antique Sale will be taking place on Friday, February 29 at 11am.

For more information contact 01785 714905 or email office@cuttlestones. co.uk