Stone troughs, fountains, metal seats and other curious reclaimed items that could become garden ornaments will all feature at a sale in Carlisle next week.

But the next architectural salvage and garden sale by H&H Auction Rooms, on Thursday afternoon, will include one much more unexpected lot: a real fire engine.

The fire engine was an emergency vehicle used at Spadeadam Testing and Research site for work on fires and explosions. Auctioneer and valuer Stephen Farthing says: “We have had a play and it’s great fun!

“We are excited to see how it goes. It is a working fire engine that has seen some real action.”

He explains: “There’s a current trend for the re-purposing of unusual items like this for personal and business use.

“Last year we sold a 1960s ice cream van that was turned into a prosecco bar, and I can imagine the same fate for this fantastic machine. Or it would be perfect as a charity show-stopper.”

Stephen adds: “Alternative uses would only be limited by the imagination. It would make a quirky garden shed, original guest accommodation, a fun wedding or hen night transfer vehicle to name a few.

“But whatever you have in mind it will certainly turn heads and create a real buzz on auction day.”

Another mode of transport on offer is a pony and trap, which comes complete with a life-sized mannequin pony. “It which would make a great addition to a stables or stud,” he suggests.

Other highlights include a three-tier fountain from a locate estate.

Reclaimed stone items often give gardeners ideas and inspiration for their gardens, whether they turn them into planters or water features, and Stephen says: “We have already added many other fascinating stone items and other gardenalia to our catalogue, with so many potential uses.

“I would encourage anyone who is considering a project to come along, as often these sales uncover some real hidden gems and are a one-off opportunity to get something truly original that will be a real talking point.”

n The sale is at the Rosehill auction centre in Carlisle and begins at 2pm, with the doors opening at 11am for browsing. Stephen is also happy to review items in advance of the sale for anyone unsure about their suitability. For more information contact the saleroom on 01228 406320.