Q: I have a dish about 12ins across and it is in the shape of an anemone, and is bright purple and red. On the base it says Shorter. How old is it and what is it worth? Mrs G

A. Shorter and Son is a pottery firm based in Stoke-on-Trent. Founded in the late 19th century, it made goods under several names, including Batavia ware, and is noted for novelty products, including toby jugs, and flower-design pottery of the type you describe. This item dates from about 1940 and was part of a series. Value would be about £40.