Symonds & Sampson latest auction offerings ensured a packed sale room and top prices were paid for all lots, ending a very busy month with properties auctioned in Dorset, Devon and Somerset raising over £3 million.

Auctioneer Mark Lewis felt that it was a red letter day, “We were fortunate to have some very interesting lots in the auction and the attention from prospective bidders.

Caphays Cottage (pictured) at Caundle Marsh near Sherborne was being marketed for the first time since 1960. The property now needs complete renovation but, guided at £200,000, the sale price was £280,000.

The most interest, however, was for an end of terraced house in the middle of Crewkerne which was in need of completion after some initial remedial work had been done. There was a yard and stone barn included and the modest guide of £95,000 was quickly beaten and the hammer fell at £200,000, over double the guide.