Fine art and antiques auctioneers report tentative signs of a recovery in the market since the autumn auction season got under way at the beginning of September. Organisers of next weekend's two-day antiques and art fair in Limerick hope to benefit from what they describe as "the current promising trends in the economy." Robin O'Donnell, of Hibernian Antique Fairs, said the fair would be "the biggest event of its kind to date in Ireland". Up to 100 dealers are expected at the South Court Hotel, Raheen, Limerick on Saturday and Sunday next, November 1st and 2nd. The event, now in its 23rd year, caters to both specialist collectors and occasional buyers with thousands of items on offer, at all price levels, including paintings, small pieces of antique furniture, jewellery, silver, porcelain, clocks, books, coins and banknotes and all manner of collectibles.

The fair takes place from 11am to 6pm on both days. Entry €3.50 per adult, inclues raffle ticket for a pair of Victorian ruby-glass decanters.