Gwent | Archive | 2003 | April | 4
From the South Wales Argus, first published Friday 4th Apr 2003.
THIS weekend you can learn about a load of codswallop or buy Victorian bottles from as little as 50p - if you know where to look.
Malvern Antiques and Collectors Fair is a regular fixture in the town's diary and this Sunday the monthly fair promises to offer something a little different in addition to the regular 200 stalls.
Stallholder Gary Higgins returns to his regular monthly pitch after a six-month break and is bringing with him a large collection of Victorian Hot Water Bottles and storage jars. He will also exhibit a collection of old bottles, including a selection of Victorian Codd's lemonade bottles dating from 1872 and costing between 50p and £40 and will be on hand to explain the origin of the disparaging tem `codswallop'.
"It was Hiram Codd who patented the very first bottle to enclose a glass marble stopper in its neck, hence the birth of the name Codd's Bottles," explained Mr Higgins.
"It has been estimated there are between 500 and 1,000 totally different types of them but they are more widely renowned for giving their name to the well-know English phrase `codswallop'.
`Codswallop' was apparently a sarcastic reference to what was inside the bottle, as no self-respecting beer-swilling gent would be seen dead with a bottle of `codswallop' in his hand!"
Collectable bottles have become increasingly desirable amongst enthusiasts. Favourite styles include the traditional Codd's Bottle and the highly collectable Ginger Beer Bottles.
Bottles are a great starting point for young collectors as they are very affordable; but if Victorian vessels are not really your thing, Malvern also provides a great selection of quality jewellery, pine furniture, textiles, ceramics, silverware and other antique and collectable items.
Organiser of the fair DMG Fairs say the goods on offer are of a high quality and the fact that its regular stallholders return time after time means the Malvern fair has attracted a reputation as an antiques venue for trade and public buyers alike, regularly attracting up to 2,000 visitors.
Doors open from 10am to 5pm and entry costs £2.50. There are free parking facilities, a restaurant inside the hall and under-16s are admitted free. For further information on the event call 01278 784912.
© Newsquest Media Group 2008