AN auction company has emerged as the unlikely saviour of Winchcombe's youth centre and community radio station.

Bespoke Auctions has moved from Tewkesbury into the former youth club building in Gretton Road.

By taking over the large hall and office space, the company has enabled youngsters and the volunteer-led Radio Winchcombe to stay in the building.

Renamed the Old Boy's School, the auction company hosted its first sale on Thursday.

Auctioneer Nicholas Granger said the highlight of the day was the sale of a 17th century table, which was bought for £7,800.

He said: "We had six telephone bidders and 100 bidders registered online. It was wonderful."

An oil painting on canvas of a Napoleonic cavalry officer sold for £3,200, 10 times its estimated price.

Mr Granger said the move had been welcomed by the community.

The youth club was under threat of closure when Gloucestershire County Council announced it would cut funding for the service. Winchcombe Youth Partnership, made up of the town council, two schools and the churches, stepped in to save the service.

And the money from the auction company will pay to keep the youth club running.

Mr Granger said: "We have taken over the majority of the building which means the youth club and Radio Winchcombe can still use it. They are in a smaller section but at least they can continue and we have a chance to ensure the building is maintained properly.

"It is also bringing a lot of people to Winchcombe which helps local trade.

"We look at it as an opportunity to have some fun and we want to help the community, that is important to us."

Bespoke Auctions will hold sales at the end of every month.

Mr Granger added: "I am very pleased with the arrangement, it was a leap of faith but we hope it works out."

Chairman of Winchcombe Town Council, Ron Harrison also spoke of his delight at the news. He said: "We are pleased the youth centre has been reborn and we have introduced a new business in the town."

OPINION, P8