Sophisticated negotiator or embarrassing punter? Either way – and very much to Salmon’s chagrin – Trota is a big fan of antiques fairs…

Antiques Fairs

… never more in her element than when rummaging among piles of fragrant vintage linen or scouting out the latest essential bone china find.

And of all weekends, this is a special one, because the season started at Shepton Mallet. To make sure you don’t miss any of the precious dates, here’s the link to the 2016 IACF calendar. You can be certain Trota has them all marked in her calendar…and Salmon has been more than thoroughly briefed.

The beauty of antique fairs, of course, is that you can find a bit of everything. So even if you can’t tell your Shelley from your Spode, your tennis set from your demitasse, there is much fun to be had hunting for tasteful bounty to take back to your (probably already well appointed) kitchen or living room, to display and enjoy.

Even hard core sceptics (yes, you Mr Salmon Rowe…) can usually find some sporting paraphernalia or small classic cars to rekindle faded enthusiasms.

Whatever your penchant – from medals to models – don’t miss out. Whether you are a Shepton Mallet kind of person, Newark hard core or metropolitan Ally Pally type, there will always be something for you…

… as indeed there is something for everyone. Quite literally. Oh dear…