Bookings are now being taken for a full time course run by the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV) and the Irish Antiques Dealers Association that leads to a diploma in Fine and Decorative Arts. The year-long course, which begins on October 13th, has just 20 places and the fee is £1,950.

The main areas covered by the course include the history of furniture, interiors, glass and silver, and there will also be lectures on architecture and paintings. For more details contact Liam O'Donnell at 01-678 5685.