About Us

Laidlaw Auctioneers and Valuers are evangelical in the belief that auctions offer the most exciting of shopping experiences, with all the drama of the theatre combined with the thrill of a day at the races. Founded in 2013 by BBC antiques expert Paul Laidlaw, Laidlaw Auctioneers and Valuers comprises a small team of antique experts who share Paul's vision to transform the public perception of the auction world from the Dickensian to the Digital Age.  

Based in a lovingly re-purposed period building, the auction rooms are situated in the heart of Carlisle, between the wild and beautiful borders of Scotland and the picturesque English Lake District. 

Laidlaw Auctioneers and Valuers is one of relatively few auction houses in the country to offer weekend specialist auctions, opening up these events to the widest possible audience via the internet, with online catalogues and live interactive bidding for every sale. This approach means that our auctions are unmissable events for buyers, and an exceptional route to market for prospective sellers. Find out what people are saying.

PAUL LAIDLAW BSc
Auctioneer & Valuer
[email protected]
Twitter: @thepaullaidlaw

Edinburgh born Paul Laidlaw has had a passion for antiques since childhood. Academic by nature, he chose to read science at University, though his love of antiques and persistent devouring of related knowledge never faltered.

Having been head-hunted by H&H Auction Rooms of Carlisle, he joined the firm in 2002, leaving in 2012 to launch this business. Since 2006 Paul has made regular appearances as an expert on BBC's 'Bargain Hunt', 'Antiques Roadtrip', 'Celebrity Antiques Roadtrip' and most recently 'Flog it!'.

He has earned an enviable reputation for conviviality, true specialist expertise and strong results.

CHRIS DEPPORT BA
Auctioneer and Valuer
 

Chris has been involved in the world of antiques and auctions for over two decades, developing a passion for the industry at a young age by regularly visiting car boot sales and antiques fairs with his grandmother. After 6 years in the British Army, he turned his passion into a career by gaining a degree in the subject of antiques and then working in auctions across the country.    

Chris brings a wealth of general antiques and collectables knowledge to Laidlaws, but has a particular fondness for coins, glass, and design movements of the early 20th Century.

When not enjoying himself going through boxes of old coins, Chris can be found in nature talking to trees, foraging for wild plants and hoping they are safe to eat, or wild swimming (summer only activity).

MATTHEW COOK

Live Internet Bidding

Matthew Cook’s role here at Laidlaw's is the administration of the live internet bidding platform; connecting us to our international audience.
Matthew has a heady interest in all things unique and antique. His particular specialisms surround period silver and ceramics, while his automobile love comes in the form of his classic 1964 Rover P4.

STEPHEN POOLE
General Manager

Of all the team members here at Laidlaw’s, Stephen Poole has worked with Paul the longest. He has over 20 years of invaluable auction room experience to draw upon, acquired as he developed his career from auction house porter to General Manager.

While breadth of knowledge is crucial to his role here, Stephen has a keen and specific interest in quality and vintage fishing tackle. 

 
HANNAH VALERIE STOKOE BA
Junior Auctioneer & Valuer
 

Hannah is originally from Kent but moved to Cumbria and stumbled across her dream job quite by accident.

She had previously achieved a first in Art History at the University of Plymouth, working and volunteering in heritage sites before discovering the world of auctioneering and beginning her career at Laidlaw.

Hannah has always had a love for antiques and collecting things to fill her home. This, combined with her love of studying and research, makes auctioneering the career for her. Whilst Hannah is learning it all, she has a particular interest in paintings and prints.

 
LOCHLAN KIRKWOOD
Trainee Auctioneer & Valuer
 
Lochlan has had a great interest in history from a very young age. When not attending auctions or antique fairs he can be found performing in medieval reenactments for English Heritage. Whilst his passion lies with GB coins and Second World War militaria, Lochlan is keen to expand his knowledge in all areas.
 

LOKI