MORE THAN 60 castle owners have cleared out their unwanted knick-knacks for the poshest ‘car boot sale’ in Scotland.
For the first time bargain hunters will have the chance to buy into the lifestyle of some of the countries’ most impress and historic homes in the jamboree sale with a difference.
China tea services, antique jewelry, vintage clothing, furniture and even swords will be up for grabs in the unusual event next month in the grounds of Dalkeith Palace.
Treasures will come from stunning residence such as Kelburn Castle in Ayrshire, seat of the Earl of Glasgow, and Duns Castle in Berwickshire owned by the Laird, Alexander Hay of Duns and Drumelzier.
Money raised from the event, including a £5 entrance fee, will go to the Elizabeth Finn Care charity which support people in financial need.
Stallholder Lucy Wood, from near Peebles, plans to sell her grandmother’s vintage paste necklace, a China tea service and a 19th-century Hussar’s sword at the event.
“These things are just in a cupboard and I don’t use them,” she said. “In a way I’m sorry to see them go but you can’t hang on to everything.
“I do hope they go to a good home. I do feel that things ‘go round’, that people are more aware of old things now and love old things. Fashions come and go and everyone has their own style.”
Tamara Whitson, one of the organisers, explained: “There’s a committee who mailed out to stallholders. They are contacts, friends, and friends of friends, selected by invitation only.
“On the day itself there’s the chance for punters to come in and buy a bit of Scottish history which has been squirrelled away in someone’s attic.
“The beauty is that there is the opportunity to find items which you wouldn’t necessarily come by in shops with no mark-up by antique dealers.
“The prices will not be extortionate and unlike eBay you can check the condition of things before you buy and then take them home that day.”
She added: “Just before the gates open a number of antique dealers will go around and check the prices are right, so that no-one is spending too much, and make sure a Rembrandt hasn’t been overlooked.”
Sarah Dawnay, chairwoman of the sale, said: “There has been nothing on this scale before. I am very grateful to all those taking part. It should be a wonderful day out for both sellers and buyers.”
The Stately Homes Attic Sale, 17 May, Dalkeith Palace, 10.30am-3.30pm.
