Free valuations on potentially valuable items are available at a special event on Monday, March 4.

Mitchells’ new head of antiques & fine art, James Moore, is to hold a pop-up valuation event at the Herald's new Penrith office for Eden Animal Rescue.

The event follows a successful valuation at Shipping Brow Gallery in Maryport, which saw more than 60 people presenting items for assessment.

These ranged from antique dolls and toys to jewellery, collector’s items and large paintings by famed local artists William Mitchell and Percy Kelly, whose works typically fetch thousands.

Mr Moore said: "We already offer free drop-in valuations at our Cockermouth saleroom during office hours but we wanted to make it easier for people further afield to access our services, particularly in the Penrith and Eden area now that PFK has closed its saleroom."

Satisfied with the turnout at the previous event, Mr Moore looks forward to another robust turnout for this collaboration with The Cumberland & Westmorland Herald.

He noted that people often harbour potentially valuable items, and this event provides a perfect opportunity to determine the worth of those items, free of charge.

Moore further stated: "Whether it’s a painting, jewellery or something else, we’re keen to encourage more people to consider selling by auction through Mitchells.

"We reach buyers all over the world with our international marketing and can achieve the best prices through live online bidding."

Aiding Moore in the event will be David Lomas, a specialist in toys, model railways, books, stamps and jewellery, and Claire Machin who is on the hunt for items for their Maritime & Transport Sale.

The event invites the public to bring their items or a photo if too large to carry, for a free, no-obligation valuation from 10am till 2pm.

All attendees are encouraged to make a donation to Eden Animal Rescue.