An auction house has doubled in size with the opening of a new saleroom.

The new 1,300 square foot saleroom, which opened in November, is part of a £1 million investment by 1818 Auctioneers at the J36 Rural Auction Centre on the Cumbria and Lancashire border.

The expansion increases capacity and provides additional space for a growing number of specialist departments.

David Hunter, valuer, shows a member of the public the new toys section in the new saleroom (Image: Supplied) Bill Nelson, auction manager, said: "We now have 12 valuers whose expertise covers a huge range of subjects.

"That includes antique and vintage furniture, jewellery, silver, figurines, pictures, cameras, pens and automobilia.

"Plus textiles, stamps, vinyl, toys, coins, wine and spirits, militaria, country pursuits and sporting memorabilia and books.

"Whilst all our sales are online, our viewing days are more popular than ever.

"Dealers and members of the public tell us they appreciate coming in to speak to experts, and to handle the items being sold.

"Now we have dedicated space for each specialist so people know exactly where to find them.

"This purpose-built facility reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing services for buyers and sellers alike.

"There’s even a Café Ambio next door for a brew and food."

Viewers in the new sale room at 1818 Auctioneers (Image: Supplied) The investment comes after a year of growth for 1818 Auctioneers, who have handled 23,500 lots between January 1 and October 2024, with 19,000 of these successfully sold.

Among the top prices achieved were £7,600 for a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date watch, £1,460 for a Charles I gold coin and £2,000 for a watercolour by Cumbrian artist Percy Kelly.

According to Mr Nelson, in the last decade, the auction house has increased turnover from £600,000 to £1.75 million, with staff numbers increasing from seven to more than 22.

The new facility also aims to streamline operations, allowing lots to move directly into designated areas for cataloguing.

Mr Nelson added: "This new saleroom is more than just a building; it represents our dedication to innovation and excellence in the auction industry."

This is the 11th year that the auctioneers have been trading at J36, after they moved from the centre of Kendal in 2013.