A historic Bridport building has come back to life as a business dealing in history and collectibles.

Busby Auctioneers and Valuers has opened up its new Bridport salerooms in the Old Hemp Store at North Mills, formerly home to Forest Products.

The building dates from the 19th century and is a living reminder of the town’s rope and netting industry.

Bill Hoade, cataloguer and researcher explained that the search for suitable premises was a long one.

“We were looking for 14 months for premises, but when we saw this one we realised the potential was enormous,” said Bill who has worked for Woolley & Wallis and Netherhampton salerooms.

“It has fantastic natural light, which is great.

“We have 7,000 square feet, which is huge and next door, 12,000 square feet over four floors, which we are going to open as Bridport storage.”

Owner Hugo Busby says the size makes the premises ideal for a salesroom.

“We found what I consider are actually the ideal premises in terms of layout.

“It’s almost like the building was built to be an auction house,” he said.

The first of the quarterly fine art and antiques sales was last week and there will be eight general sales a year.

For more information and details visit: busby.co.uk, telephone 01308 420100 or info@busby.co.uk