PROPERTY agency Eddisons hailed a “very strong” start to 2012 after generating proceeds exceeding £8.2m at its first two-day auction of the year.

Eddisons, which has offices in Huddersfield, said 112 of the 162 lots offered at the sale in Leeds and Manchester found buyers – representing a 69% success rate.

Auctioneer Tony Webber said: “This was a very strong performance to start our auction year.

“Although the market remains price sensitive, there was a definite mood of quiet confidence among buyers who clearly came with cash to invest or external funding in place, which meant many lots generated multiple interest.”

Among the successful lots was a two-storey office building with car parking at Aspley Marina, which was offered on the instructions of British Waterways.

The canalside property generates rental income of £5,100 and sold for £67,000.