1 week Ago By [email protected] (Marta Tavares)
A well-known face from daytime television is bringing big changes to a much-loved Newark business. Charles Hanson — star of Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip — has taken over Northgate Auctions, rebranding the site as The Auction Room Newark. Mr Hanson, an experienced auctioneer and valuer with more than 20 years in the industry, said he was drawn to the town’s rich heritage and strong community.
He added: “Newark is full of history, charm and a real appreciation for the past. “This site has great potential and I’m excited to be part of its future.” The site, which has operated as an auction house for decades, is being transformed ahead of its first live sale under the new name on May 10.
The venue will welcome Corner Farm Shop, a café serving homemade cakes, savouries and local produce. It will also host Memory Lane Antiques — The Barn, a vintage and collectables shop previously based in Southwell and there is a full calendar of live and general auctions planned, including lost property charity auctions, with all proceeds going to charity. Mr Hanson, who has restored and revitalised auction homes across the country, said that Newark would offer something special.
“This is about making it more than just an auction room — it’s a destination. “People can pop in for a bite to eat, browse antiques, and experience the excitement of a live sale. “We want it to be a place that welcomes everyone, whether you're a collector, dealer, or just curious.
” Despite the changes bringing the auction room more into the modern day, Mr Hanson said he has no intention of changing the core of the business. “We’re not here to erase what came before,” he added. “We’re building on it, keeping the community spirit and giving people more reasons to visit.
” Carol Morrell, the co-owner of Memory Lane Antiques alongside her husband David Cookman, knew Mr Hanson from when her shop was in Southwell. Due to the decline of trade in the town, Mr Hanson invited Carol to bring her business into the auction house in Newark. Carol is also the new site manager at the auction house.
She said: “We’re bringing in better things, selling better things, and getting people back interested. “We’re using local businesses, local farms – it’s about keeping it in the community.” The building has been undergoing refurbishment since mid-April, with auctions paused from Saturday April 19 until the reopening date.
Valuation days with Mr Hanson will also take place monthly on site, along with regular in-person auctions every other month. Mr Hanson, who is excited about this new venture with Newark, got involved with auctions due to his passion for history, theatre, drama and objects. He concluded: “I always say, if objects can talk, what can they tell us? “We come and go in life and antiques live on and on and that's a thrill we have in what we do, in sharing history and sharing memories.
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