A THRIVING Cockermouth stamp club is holding an auction later this month, with more than 480 lots going under the hammer.

The club, which was set up more than three years ago, held its first auction last summer. This proved such a success it has decided to hold two this year.

Secretary Mike Roberts said: "The lots will appeal to a broad range of collectors, with estimates ranging from 50p to several £100s.

"There are three Penny Blacks, three Cape of Good Hope Triangulars and several lots of Cumbrian postal history with letters to and from Cockermouth, Whitehaven and elsewhere in Cumbria from the 1790s onwards, all submitted by vendors living locally.

"I think we are beginning to identify more collectors in the West Cumbria area who are obviously attracted to the idea that they can can add to their collections through the auction."

Mr Roberts set up the club with Mike Mapleton over three years ago. Members meet on the fourth Thursday of each month at 11am in the Friends' Meeting House, Kirkgate.

"The club is going from strength to strength and we have various things planned for this year, including a public exhibition," said Mr Roberts.

"The highlight of the year will undoubtedly be a talk by Richard Stock, who will by then be president of the Royal Philatelic Society London, the world’s most prestigious stamp club, in June."

The summer auction had more than 450 lots with the top price - £130 - being paid for a Great Britain Edward VII £1 stamp which was issued in 1902.

The auction will be held on Thursday, February 28, at the Friends' Meeting House. The sale starts at 11.30am, viewing is open from 10.30am.

More details from mike@mikerobe.co.uk or phone 07885 839622.