Alan Carr doesn’t want them, do you? Contents of comedian’s castle to be sold

Alan Carr Doesn't Want Them, Do You? Contents of Comedian's Castle to Be Sold

Alan Carr doesn t want them - Alan Carr doesn't want them, do you? The comedian, known for his sharp wit and larger-than-life personality, has acquired Ayton Castle in the Scottish Borders for over £3.25 million. Now, hundreds of items no longer desired by Carr or the castle’s former owners are being auctioned off next month. The sale, set for 5 July, will take place at the very site where Carr now resides, with public viewings scheduled for the preceding Friday and Saturday. This event marks a unique moment in the life of a historic property, offering a glimpse into the eclectic mix of personal and cultural treasures that will soon be up for grabs.

The Menagerie’s Journey to the Castle

The auction’s standout feature is the "cement menagerie," a collection of over 90 painted animal and historical figure sculptures. These whimsical creations, once a local attraction, were moved to Ayton Castle in 2021. Jim Railton of Railtons auctioneers described the event as "the residual contents of Ayton Castle," highlighting that the items not chosen by Carr or the previous owners are now being sold. The menagerie’s origins date back to the 1960s, when a retired joiner crafted it as a personal project to entertain his disabled son. Over time, it grew into a beloved visitor spot in Branxton before being acquired by the castle’s former owners.

Alan Carr doesn’t want them, yet the menagerie’s charm remains intact. Railton noted that the collection, though not part of Carr’s immediate plans, has a rich history and drew crowds from across the region. The previous owners, who purchased the entire menagerie in 2021, saw its potential as a unique selling point. However, as Carr’s vision for the castle unfolds, these pieces are being repurposed for new owners who may appreciate their artistic and historical value. The auction promises to be a fascinating blend of nostalgia and contemporary interest, with items ranging from handcrafted sculptures to vintage memorabilia.

Items Beyond the Menagerie

Alongside the menagerie, the auction will feature over 400 additional items, including paintings, furniture, and textiles. While most are expected to sell for a few hundred pounds, some pieces are likely to command higher prices. A 2011 Bentley Mulsanne with 40,000 miles, for instance, could fetch between £20,000 and £30,000. Conversely, a contemporary railway departure board might sell for as little as £10 to £15. This wide range of items reflects the diverse history of Ayton Castle, which has served as both a family home and a cultural hub.

Alan Carr doesn’t want them, but the auction offers an opportunity to explore the castle’s storied past. The sale includes everything from everyday household objects to rare artifacts, providing a comprehensive look at the lives of its former inhabitants. Railton emphasized the event’s significance, stating that it will feature a marquee on the castle’s lawn and the sale of approximately 460 lots. The auction has already attracted interest from collectors, historians, and enthusiasts across the UK and beyond, underscoring the appeal of the collection.

"It's naive art," Railton explained. "It was created by a retired joiner for his disabled son and was a well-known visitor attraction in Branxton. People came from far and wide to see it, and the entire collection was purchased by the previous owners of Ayton Castle."

The quote captures the essence of the menagerie’s journey. Originally a private endeavor, it transformed into a public treasure, drawing visitors and sparking local pride. Now, as the castle changes hands, these pieces are returning to the community, offering a chance for new ownership. The auction not only clears space for Carr’s personal projects but also ensures the legacy of the menagerie lives on through its sale.

With Alan Carr doesn’t want them, the sale of Ayton Castle’s contents becomes more than a financial transaction—it’s a cultural event. The auction is expected to generate significant interest, particularly among those who recognize the historical and artistic value of the items. From the quirky sculptures to the vintage car, each lot tells a story. The process of bidding, however, is as much about the nostalgia of the collection as it is about the practicality of its sale. As the castle moves into a new chapter under Carr’s stewardship, the auction serves as a reminder of the past and a celebration of its enduring appeal.