AN auction of properties in Huddersfield smashedthrough the £3m mark.

It confirms that the market continues to be on the up and up, say delighted auctioneers.

Forty-three homes, plots and commercial buildings went under the hammer.

Buyers paid a total of £3,441,000.

Such sales at the McAlpine Stadium are regular events run by Huddersfield business Boultons, based in John William Street.

Director Raymond Butterworth said: "The results confirm the continuing strong interest in property." The top price of the day was the £345,000 paid for a house in St Mary's Lane, Kirk- heaton.

Viewing days had already been held for people interested in buying the detached, double-fronted property, which has six bedrooms.

Between 700 and 800 people went to the auction.

The sales were switched to the McAlpine this year after their success at the Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, sparked traffic problems.

A building plot off Almondbury Bank, with planning permission for just one house, sold for £141,000.

One buyer paid £115,000 for a single-storey lodge house on Huddersfield Road, Meltham Mills, described as being in need of "rejuvenation".

THE auction house usually produce a catalogue 3-4 weeks before the auction with price guides and details of what's about to come under the hammer.

The price guide is usually a conservative estimate which will be exceeded.

If the reserve is not reached the property is withdrawn.

Read the catalogue, make your choice then view the property and have a survey done.

The auction house will provide a seller's pack with all of the details that your solicitor will need, usually for a fee of around £10.

Expect anything from 200-600 to show up.

And if you don't fancy bidding, use your solicitor. Alternatively, bid over the phone. You can also bid online at some auctions.