An auction business founded by television antiques expert Charles Hanson is switching its sales online due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Due to government rules on social distancing, Hansons has temporarily closed its salerooms in Derbyshire, Staffordshire and London.
Now, Mr Hanson has announced that from next month, the firm will hold online-only auctions, which will be broadcast live.
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According to the firm, the move has been prompted by demand from clients.
Now, at future sales, people from anywhere in the world will be able to bid and buy remotely - and have objects delivered through Hansons’ in-house postage department.
Mr Hanson said: “Auctions are currently limited due to the worldwide pandemic but global buyers still wish to add to their collections.
“We have witnessed particularly strong demand from buyers in the US, as well as other countries.
“Hansons is well placed to provide an excellent online-only auction package.
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“We are a technically-adept firm, which offers two online bidding platforms, a respected and experienced postage department and a strong online and social media presence.
“The sales will be streamed live on our Twitter, Facebook and YouTube channels.”
The company itself has also been doing its bit to help with the fight against coronavirus.
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Earlier this month, Mr Hanson broadcast an online-only charity auction from his Derbyshire garden shed, which was watched by more than 10,000 people and raised £36,000 for the Derby and Burton NHS Charity Covid-19 Appeal.
Mr Hanson said: “The technology is here and, due to the current situation, it’s now being fast-tracked to enable us reach new people and build and develop our business in very testing times.
“We’re also offering a virtual valuations service for clients. They can e-mail in photos of items and chat to experts via Zoom, Facetime, Skype or WhatsApp.”