Auction's future in the balance

A Mid Wales town could see the end of a 63-year tradition after a change in day for the monthly auction.

Harry Ray and Company in Welshpool has been holding auctions in the town hall since 1946.

But a decision by councillors to establish a weekly Friday market meant this month's auction, which is always held on a Friday, had to be changed to a Thursday.

Jim Mason, of Harry Ray and Co, said he would be seeing how today's sale went before making any decision on the future of the auction.

He said: "I have great sympathy with Welshpool Town Council and fully understand the thinking behind the decision.

"There are financial reasons to understand. The council needs to make more profitable use of their town hall facilities and our auctions have been monthly at best.

"But it will be a shame if this is the beginning of the end of the sales."

He said plans to develop the ground floor of the town hall with permanent stalls could also put an end to the auction. But said he would be looking into the possibility of holding auctions in the town hall ballroom on the first floor.

He said: "We have used that facility before but there are obvious difficulties, particularly when furniture is involved."

Robert Robinson, town council clerk, said councillors had been working closely with Harry Ray and Co to find a solution.

He said: "Harry Ray and Co have been kept fully informed about our decisions and we will continue to work with them to find the best way forward."