Posted on 30th Apr
A new antiques fair that promises to offer a wide range of interesting collectables has been launched in the Newark area, reports Rachel Jones.
Red Fox Fairs, run by Paula Banas with the help of her partner, Dave Matthews, holds its first event in Coddington today at the community centre, from 10am to 3pm.
The couple have also taken over two already successful fairs in Collingham and Lowdham after the previous owners stepped down.
Paula, who has worked as an antiques dealer for several years, used to stand at the Collingham fair.
Talking about what got her into the antique business, she said: “I have always loved all things vintage and retro, but it started after moving from London up to Newark.
“My father-in-law, Chris Matthews, has been a dealer for 30 years and he shared his passion, teaching me all the tricks of the trade.
“At first, I stood at the fairs with him, and once I had grown in knowledge I began doing my own.”
From there, Red Fox Fairs was developed.
Paula added: “In 2021, an opportunity arose with taking over an antique fair I use to stand at in Collingham. Having a catering and events background, it was a no-brainer.
“Collingham was also the first fair I stood at. 2022 was a trial run to see how it would all go. It went better than expected, and I have enjoyed every single fair.
“Fast forward to 2023 and we now run fairs at three locations in Collingham, Lowdham, and Coddington.”
Each fair will offer a variety of different items to cater for a wide range of people and interests, ranging from Victorian silverware, costumes, collectable glass, and pocket money item.
Paula also says she has noticed an increasing number of young people interested in antiques, which will hopefully improve the image that antiques are stuffy and for older people.
“At each fair we try to cater for all ages,” she added. “I am delighted we have seen more younger people coming to the fairs, which was my big goal.
“We have got a vast array of dealers who specialise in subjects like prints, silver, clothing, glass, taxidermy, and watches. All dealers work very hard in between to make sure they have got some exciting stock.”
Paula shared her enthusiasm for preserving antique items and why she enjoys working with them so much.
“Prints are my absolute addiction. There is no better feeling when you get your hands on what for some might look like a scruffy piece of paper, choosing a frame, and seeing it evolve into something really special,” she added.
“I am absolutely in love with fine hand-coloured Victorian natural history and quirky anatomical prints, along with fantastic vintage bookplates — all sold loose, mounted or framed. It’s a way of preserving them.
“And that’s what I love about the fairs. They are a fun way to recycle, upcycle and preserve.”
Red Fox Fairs will run on a wide range of dates throughout Nottinghamshire this year. For more information go to https://www.facebook.com/redfoxfairs
