THE UK’s first specialist centre dedicated to the English country house, early oak furniture and related works of art is coming to North Yorkshire.

CEFA - the Centre for Early Furniture and Art – is opening its headquarters and galleries at Swinton Park, near Masham, with a celebratory summer exhibition and auction.

It is committed to the supply of items predominantly from the “oak periods” - namely the 16th to 19th centuries - and later revivals.

Founder and director Louise Forster said: “England and oak have an exciting and important relationship and it is this core focus that provides the inspiration for the centre.

“Our experts have a shared drive to establish foundations for the appreciation of the English tradition of furniture making that began in the Middle Ages.

“This tradition engaged only organic material and produced items that often speak volumes about the lives and thoughts of the craftsman involved in their production.”

The first sale takes place on June 24 with an opening reception in the castle on June 19.

Auctioneer Richard Edwards said: “The CEFA sales are on-track to create excitement and opportunities in terms of historical, cultural and entrepreneurial focus and we are thrilled to be involved in putting these important foundation stones in place for the long-term benefit of the subject.”