I’ve collected 163 bedpans since 1984 – but I’ve run out of room and flogging them all
A COLLECTOR with Europe’s biggest stash of bedpans is flogging the lot — because she has run out of space.
Mary Jacobs, 77, has amassed 163 of the pots after taking a shine to one at a Salvation Army jumble sale in 1984.
Every year since, her commode compilation has grown with her regular visits to auctions and charity shops.
She said she “just wanted to collect something different”.
Now Mary — who has paid between 50p and £18 for her guzunders — has decided enough is enough.
She said: “I catalogue and label each bedpan so I know where I bought it from and how much it cost.
“Most people think they all look the same but in fact they are all different sizes, colours and shapes. They vary a lot.”
Mary, of Newmarket, Suffolk, whose favourite has a blue and white pattern, said: “They’re clean, washed and in fantastic condition.
“I had a cupboard built to store them in my front bedroom but I’m getting older and need to clear some space. I hope they go to a good home.”
Auctioneer Stephen Drake said: “I’ve never seen such a big collection of bedpans. It’s amazing that Mary has taken the time to put it together.”
The receptacles will be auctioned today by Batemans of Stamford, Lincs.