I would like to clear up a few minor misconceptions about Emma Bridgewater Pottery.

I have spoken to staff at the Stoke shop who have explained their system of marking their pieces with 's'.

If the pottery has an etched 's' it is definitely a second. The fault may be major, very minor and occasionally non-existent so it is all down to the Ebayer's description.

If the piece has a small printed black 's'... It means 'SALE', not second!. Some of the pottery is actually old stock but none have been checked by the warehouse staff beforehand so again it is down to the individual to look at the piece. The backstamp is always relevant regardless of the 's'.

If a bird mug has an old backstamp..it is an old bird mug regardless of the 's'. Whether it is a first or second is up to the seller and buyer to ascertain.

The only known pieces of Bridgewater to have been faked are the 'Dairy' design butter dome and cheese dish. There are no mugs/plates/bowls that I have heard about.

Finally, I have been collecting Bridgewater pottery since 1991 and buy and sell on Ebay.

You should love the pottery and buy to your pocket. The same applies to anything on Ebay. Wedgwood, Adams, Denby, Portmeirion etc.... Why are there so many Bridgewater reviews about getting ripped off? You can buy ANY pottery cheaper if you visit sales at factory shops and department stores. Here endeth the lecture!