I grew up in Yorkshire and one of my favourite places to visit when I'm back in the area is the 'Harrogate Antique Centre'. 

http://www.crimplehall.co.uk/antiques 

I cannot leave Yorkshire without paying this establishment a visit. Needless to say, that I always end up struggling on the train back down to London with some awkward, fragile, definitely too big for my suitcase  treasure. 

The venue itself has a vast array of collectibles suitable for customers with either a modest or large budget. Personally, I like to find and purchase objects that can be used again, either for its original intention or for an entirely new purpose. 

Over my visits I have purchased items for my home, gifts and even centre pieces for my wedding! These have included cat vase (no, you're right my husband does not approve!) , poison bottles, Chic French Tins, China, WW1 Binoculars. My favourite find was discovered when I bought a cute little piano trinket box for just £1. When I opened it I found a mini borrower sized 'Laurel' razor and blade hiding inside. It is so tiny I honestly think it must have belonged to a fairy or some other tiny magical creature! 

If you are ever in the area you must have a look, there is also a brilliant cafe adjoining the centre, making it a lovely little afternoon out! 

 

An interview with myself:

Why the fascination with old, discarded and previously unwanted objects?

I have always been curious about other peoples belongings, if I'm left alone in your house, I will want to look through your things. As a child, I loved to rifle through my grandmothers mementos, it gave me a greater impression of her personality and in a way helped me to feel closer to her even after she had died. I still enjoy looking in her handbag and reading her correspondence with my Grandad! 

Objects that have had previous owners, feed my already over active imagination. I like to create romantic narratives surrounding the origins of the objects that I find and the people they may have belonged to.

I also cannot escape that feeling and excitement of discovering something that may be worth a secret million! 

Which objects first captured your imagination? 

1. 'Amy' aeroplane ladies pin - found whilst digging in my Great Grandmother Iris's compost heap. WHO WAS AMY? 

2. crystals from my Grandmother's purse- Are they magic? Was she a secret mystic? Will they help me to find my one true love? 


3. Grandfather's RAF Flight hat - What can I say; it looks good on both my head and as an ornamental piece in my house. Despite the fear that he may be passing judgment on me down from heaven. Its well worth it.

What is this blog about? 

In a nutshell, my husband told me that I needed a hobby apart from teaching. So I decided to write about all of my bargains that I find. By bargain, I am aware only a select few will see them as bargains and the vast majority will view them as a bloody rip off "Put that tat back in the charity shop" sort of bargain.

Stay tuned!