UK

The prime minister-in-waiting, Andy Burnham, is planning to move parts of Downing Street’s operation to Manchester in a move to devolve power out of London, and a push to the city where he was formerly mayor (of Greater Manchester). One of the UK’s most visited shopping destinations for its many vintage shops, here are a few possible temptations in and around Manchester for Downing Street’s finest.

More than 200 traders descended on the local racecourse for the Newmarket Antiques & Collectors Fair, which has been running for over 20 years.

Paintings of elegantly attired female figures hold a special place in the oeuvre of the Scottish Colourist Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell (1883-1937).

Thomas Annan’s famous book is now rated as ‘one of the finest photographic works of the 19th century’

While cats might occasionally be seen prowling round a skip, it’s much rarer to spot a painting in such a location by, yes you guessed it, the feline fan’s favourite Louis Wain (1860-1939).

A typically enigmatic portrait by Gerald Leslie Brockhurst (1890-1978) attracted interest at a recent sale at Lawrences (25 buyer’s premium) of Crewkerne in Somerset.

While Jane Austen thought Bath to be wearying after six weeks, a two-day fair will keep visitors enthralled

In 1862, just a year after the founding of the Morris, Marshall & Faulkner Company at Red Lion Square, a circular was sent to prospective clients to announce the ‘revival of the art of painting on china tiles’.

Hill House Antiques & Decorative Arts is returning to Kensington after two years away.

A pair of William De Morgan ruby lustre four tile panels depicting galleons in full sail with fish swimming in sea sold for a top estimate £6000 at Martel Maides (20% buyer’s premium) in St Peter Port, Guernsey.

Two small single-owner collections of Martin Brothers stoneware were offered in June: one at Catherine Southon (27.6% buyer’s premium inc VAT) in Chislehurst, Kent, on June 17, the other as part of the Charterhouse (25% buyer’s premium) June 25 sale in Sherborne, Dorset.

The Treasure House Fair returned for its fourth edition at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

A remarkable George II giltwood and marble side table sold for £90,000 at Sworders on June 23.