BARGAIN hunters have turned out in force for the chance to get their hands on some unique artefacts and discover a hidden gem.

Craig Robinson

BARGAIN hunters have turned out in force for the chance to get their hands on some unique artefacts and discover a hidden gem.

The Snape Maltings Antiques and Fine Art Fair is now underway and will be open to members of the public until tomorrow.

A rare Aboriginal “war” boomerang and a special collection of photographs featuring famous musicians, writers, socialites and leading figures from the early 20th century by Emil Otto Hopp� are just some of the items on display and up for sale.

The fair has been running for 42 years and organisers are predicting that it could be one of the most popular ever.

Duncan Phillips said so far the number of visitors was up on last year - despite the current economic climate.

“Things are looking very promising,” he said. “It's a whole combination of things. The prices of some antiques have come down so they are more affordable and there is a greater variety than last year.

“For example as well as the usual things such as paintings and furniture we have some very quirky pieces such as bottles and clocks.”

He said people had even travelled as far as Scotland to attend the event as well as a lot of visitors from nearby Aldeburgh.

“Furniture, paintings and ceramics are selling the most,” Mr Phillips continued. “There will never be a better time to make money from antiques. They are a very good investment. People don't want to put their money into banks because of the poor interest rates so they turn to antiques.

“You can buy a painting and enjoy the feature for five or ten years and then sell it on and make a profit. If you come along you never know what you might find, you could spot a bargain that someone else has missed.”

The antiques fair is on today and tomorrow at Snape Maltings from 10am until 5pm.