MORE than 70 people attended an Antiques Valuation evening hosted by the Exeter Leukaemia Fundraising group in Crediton.

The evening raised more than £650 for ELF and special thanks from the organisers go to valuer Chris Hampton of Barnes Hampton and Littlewood, for an entertaining and informative evening.

Mr Hampton was not only amusing but had a great knowledge of values. He said that many items that people had kept in their families were usually not worth a great deal, such as bone china tea sets around £20, ornaments and pictures although excellent were not worth a lot, if they were unsigned.

However, a half hunter pocket watch on a chain with a gold sovereign was valued at around £1,000 and a rather scruffy tin of old car oil was worth about £100!

He said that commemorative coins were also not worth a great deal, many people bought them some years ago, as investment!

Other items taken along included a middle eastern sabre, a coaching horn, a small model toy Fordson Tractor (worth over £50), a Whiteways Cider competition cup, jewellery, a Winsford Stoneware cask, and lots more.

Mr Hampton was thanked by Nick Cordwent, who presented him with a gift and also thanked all the helpers who prepared and served the finger buffet refreshments, and to everyone who had supported the event.

There was also a grand raffle with many prizes.

The next event for the fundraising group will be a concert by Copplestone Community Choir entitled May We Entertain You.

This will take place at Crediton Congregational Church on Saturday, May 20, starting at 7.15pm with doors open from 7pm.

Tickets are £5 and include light refreshments. They are available on the door or in advance from Jan Martin by calling 07980 347 231 or Suzanne Lunn on 07814 372 828.

Following this event there will be a Meat Bingo at Crediton Football Clubhouse on Wednesday, May 31.

Doors open at 7pm with eyes down at 7.45pm. During the evening there will be a raffle, teas/coffee and a licensed bar available.

Exeter Leukaemia Fund supports families affected by blood cancers and blood disorders across the South West by providing compassionate, tailored support in the Yarty ward at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

The charity’s support also extends to patients of the North Devon District hospital who require outpatient or in patient care in Exeter.