MULLENS started the year with a solid auction last Monday evening, selling a full 900 lots for a total of Pounds 105,000. There was tremendous competition between trade and private buyers at both the morning and the evening session, according to auctioneer David Allen.

There were no spectacular lots on offer, just good, solid pieces of furniture and general home furnishings. However, most items sold well and above their estimates. A batter of copper saucepans, for instance, fetched Pounds 2,000 in total, when they had been expected to make no more than Pounds 600.

"There was a real buzz in the rooms, and I think it shows the confidence that is creeping back into the market", he said.

"The trade is beginning to stock up again, and the private buyers are out in force, too. If this is going to be the pattern for 1996, it is going to be a good year.

Mullens's next general and antiques sale will be on March 4th. A fine art auction will also be held on the premises on March 25th.