AN antiques and collectibles specialist outfit has flourished in lockdown as people spend more time within their own four walls.

Justine and John Wright had already seen their fledgling Tottington enterprise, Second Chance Vintage, take off before lockdown.

But with people's domestic settings coming more to the fore, the couple's knack for sourcing quirky collectibles and classics has seen the business soar.

Justine said: "We offer an eclectic range that is intended to appeal to as wide an audience as possible.

"Great colours, shapes, stories and style, that add character, practicality and aesthetic value to their new homes.

“From day one our passion has meant we’ve been busy sourcing, restoring and listing items as people want something more interesting than the modern, mass-produced objects that lack character or quirkiness you see in a wide range of home furnishing stores.

"And now as more people spend time at home, we’re getting even more requests than ever before.”

An inkling for the business came when the Wrights purchased a Victorian writing slope and a 1960s small school desk. The pieces were stripped back, with all the old paint removed and wooden surfaces sanded. This was then followed up by similar work on larger furniture and the seeds were sown.

And with upcycling TV shows like Money for Nothing all the rage now, people's perceptions of second-hand and vintage wares are changing.

Auction houses provide a ready supply of items to develop and Justine and Jon go to every sale with a plan of action.

Justine added: "My favourite items are the ones with a makers mark or brand name, this allows me to research the age and history, and we believe this is important to not only market it but also to give our customers some provenance and make the new addition to their home, a real conversation piece.”

The couple often work with customers to generate ideas over what might look best in their homes. To find out more go online to www.secondchancevintage.co.uk