i grabbed a couple of pieces from British hardwoods too- a lump of pippy oak at 14" x 7' x inch with 2 live edges. seemed reasonable at £38, maybe not a bargain on a cu ft rate, but it was a nice board and I was happy on that basis. I also got a piece of figured american cherry, which was 2" thick, 4" wide and mist be 4' or so- should yield a few spindle blanks. I saw the lime, but I only wanted a couple of bits to practice miniature whittling on- I assume that it is our equivalent of the much quoted basswood. I would hope that they will restock before tomorrow, because they had sold a lot throughout the day.
I saw what I wanted to, and bought a few bits and pieces- it was very crowded though.
You are correct with blanks though- if you can buy a large lump and cut it down, the blanks work out much cheaper.
there were very few sellers of pen blanks. A few stalls, with a few but none that were unusual or plentiful. I did get one masseur birch one, which i am looking forward to turning (and dreading in equal measure) because it is one of my favourite timbers that i have seen.
There was a good stand for turning blanks as you walk in. seemed well priced, but again, I hope that they restock over night because they had sold a lot of stuff.