THE contents of an Edwardian-era hotel overlooking Minehead are to be auctioned by Greenslade Taylor Hunt on April 14.

Following the successful sale of the property itself, the firm’s antiques department will hold a sale of the contents on the site on Thursday, April 14.

This is a fabulous opportunity to pick up some much-loved items collected over many decades by hotelier Alex de Mendoza.

He is an inveterate collector and has an eye for a pretty object so it is fitting that the contents of his smart Edwardian era hotel should be going under the hammer on site.

Auctioneer Simon Rayner said: “I can’t remember the last time there was a good old fashioned house sale, where you could see all the items in situ, and everything was up for grabs. There’s a really interesting and eclectic range of items, and I’m really looking forward to it.”

This is no catering equipment clear out for the hospitality industry this is aimed squarely at collectors wanting to augment their own collections.

Alex and his wife Naomi are downsizing from the roomy 5,500 sq ft property, so while not quite “everything must go” there are sure to be some treasures to discover.

Over the years Alex has been a regular at farm sales, house clearances and antique markets where anything that has caught his eye has found a new home in his characterful hotel.

Over the years he has picked up a delightful range of objects from his numerous overseas travels, which have taken him around the world.

It will be a wrench to leave some much-loved items, but the family’s new base calls for a switch of design from the grandeur of their Edwardian home.

“There are lots of things we will be sad to see go. There’s nothing of huge value, but some nice collectable pieces that you would like to see on your own mantelpiece or in your own home. It’s all quality, but affordable,” said Alex.

The sale starts at 10am with viewing by appointment on April 9-13, from 10am-4pm. For more information please contact Greenslade Taylor Hunt’s salerooms on 01823 332525.