The auction, which runs from Monday 30 January and is organised by Charterfields, marks the end of an era in film and television history. Europe's largest fully-equipped TV studios was home to shows including the X Factor and Britain's Got Talent, as well as TV classics such as On the Buses, Please Sir, Upstairs and Downstairs and Opportunity Knocks. The studios closed in December.
Over 1,000 lots are up for sale including a Sony MVS 8000 multi-formatted switcher processor, 10 Vinten camera pedestals, 10 Sony HDC-1500 cameras and two Calrec Apollo 56 and 72 fader sound consoles with full redundant cards, as well as a wide range of sound and vision equipment, lighting, hoists, pantographs and hospitality equipment and furniture.
Ian Maycock, director of Charterfields, said, "Fountain Studio was the largest production facility of its type in Europe and is internationally renowned. The auction is a rare opportunity for TV, production and AV companies to acquire professional equipment at below-market prices. Not surprisingly, we have had enquiries from throughout Europe."
The online auction is open from Monday, 30 January until Tuesday, 7 February. A viewing day is being held at Fountain Studios on Tuesday, 1 February. A catalogue, and full details of the sale are available at www.charterfields.com. Alternatively email enquiries@charterfields.com quoting reference "Fountain Studios".
(Jim Evans)
