MPA founder joins Pugh & Co

Pugh & Co, the region's largest independent auction house, is to start holding sales in Liverpool after hiring Kate Lay, owner of Merseyside Property Auctions.

Pugh, based in Newton-le-Willows, holds 28 auctions a year spread across Manchester, Leeds and Newcastle with 150 to 200 lots at each. The company will hold its first Liverpool auction on 29 February 2012 at Aintree Racecourse.

Pugh director Paul Thompson said: "When we decided to launch our additional venue in Liverpool we recognised Kate's success with MPA so we are delighted that she has joined us to lead our residential auction team and deliver our Liverpool auctions."

Lay said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed the past three years as MPA and I am now equally thrilled to have joined the North's leading property auctioneers Pugh & Co and look forward to continuing to provide an excellent property auction service."

Swainson and Thompson led a management buyout of Pugh & Co after the retirement of founder Roy Pugh in 2005. Pugh & Co is retained by banks and local authorities to dispose of surplus stock.

In an email flyer sent out to its database on Saturday, Pugh & Co said they were "excited to have recruited Kate Lay formerly of Merseyside Property Auctions to head up the residential auction team. Kate has over 10 years experience in property auctions in Merseyside and will continue to offer a highly professional service."

Entries are now being taken for the February auction.