Swindon bidders slugged it out over several lots, proving to Dreweatt Neate auctioneer Charles Lucas, that the right properties still attract strong interest.

“We offered 12 lots in the sale and sold seven – not exceptional but a good result in the current market. The room was packed and I thought maybe it was just curious onlookers but it soon became apparent that some were there for a serious fight.

“The first property, a village house in the highly desirable Vale of Pewsey, had a guide price of £200-250,000 and needed work; five bidders competed, it eventually went at £304,000.”

“A high street property to the south of Marlborough with planning consent for conversion to a three bedroom home had a guide of £80- 120,000 but sold for £138,000 and a former Methodist Church near Melksham went to £148,000 against a guide of £80-120,000.”

 “The sales clearly show that interesting properties are attracting bidders and an auction is a great place to maximise the return for sellers. I think the current climate, where interest rates are so low and Stock Market adventures too risky, people recognise that in the long term property will grow while capital in the bank shrinks. It has certainly sparked enthusiasm for our next sale on May 26.”