Rare pieces from officers’ mess go under the hammer

THEY once adorned the officers’ mess at Craigiehall Barracks, taking pride of place on its walls and elaborate sideboards.

But now thousands of pounds’ worth of rare army silver is due to go under the hammer at auction.

Among the items set to be sold today at Bonhams, in Queen Street, was a Victorian silver-plated centrepiece with mirror dating back to the 1800s – which auctioneers expect to fetch up to £4000.

Silver specialist Alexis Tortolano said: “We haven’t had many pieces from an officers’ mess before, and so are happy that we can help to try to sell such imposing pieces.”