A number of auction houses have spoken of the issue of unforeseen last minute absences due to self-isolation which has impacted the running of operations.
Helen Carless, managing director at auction house Lawrences of Crewkerne, said: “'Due to a number of key Lawrence’s portage staff in isolation we cannot offer help with the collection of any items that require two-man collection.”
She advised buyers will need to arrange their own collections for large lots until August 2.
Guy Schooling, chairman at Sworders, said the firm is still being affected by the pandemic in terms of staff absences. He said a number of people across the departments were currently not able to work.
He added: “Collection and deliveries and viewings will remain by appointment and we will continue our 'no people at the auction' policy. We will continue to monitor the situation.”
