The coronavirus Covid-19 epidemic has forced Derbyshire’s Hansons Auctioneers to close its doors to the public for the first time ever.
On March 23, Charles Hanson, owner of the well-known auction house which launched in 2005, took the difficult decision to scale down his business ‘to protect clients and staff’.
He said: “I have temporarily closed all three of our salerooms in Etwall, Derbyshire; Bishton Hall in Staffordshire and at the Normansfield Theatre in Teddington, London. Health must come first. We need to beat this deadly virus. With a heart for history, Hansons will go again soon.
“It’s been a hugely tough decision for me but it was one I had to take. The severity of the current coronavirus outbreak left me with no doubt that Hansons’ auction centres should temporarily close to the public until further notice to protect our clients, whether they are buying or selling, and our staff. Their wellbeing is our priority.
“I have also taken the decision to postpone imminent sales. Decisions about other upcoming auctions will be taken in due course.
“Our external and in-house valuation events have also been cancelled but, happily, we are able to offer remote valuations which can be done via email or Whatsapp. Our accounts team is also offering a remote service.
“Customers’ items in lockdown at Hansons will be stored free of charge and my team will be on hand throughout this difficult period to answer all queries and plan for the future.
“The situation is changing on a daily basis. We are monitoring advice from the Government and World Health Organisation and will react accordingly.
“This is a terrible time for all of us. It’s hard to comprehend what a dreadful impact Covid-19 has had on our lives, and the world, in such a short space of time.
“But these times will pass and I very much look forward to seeing people again on a sunnier day at our salerooms in Derbyshire, Staffordshire and London.
“In the meantime, we would be glad to offer a helping hand. If you’re stuck in lockdown and having a clear out, perhaps we can assist with valuations and sales. If you are at home, lonely or in need of advice, please give us a call.”
For advice on valuations or house clearance, email [email protected]
or call Charles Hanson on 07725 514855.
For more information about the current situation, please CLICK HERE
