Car auction for sub £1000cars?

[pucci]

I have read most of V8mates gone in 60 second posts and plan to go to BCA blackbushe tomorrow - I have downloaded the list and there seems to be a 'good' amount of older cars.
I understand the risks of an auction but was wondering if anyone has experience of buying sub £1000 cars from auctions?
Or should I hit up autotrader/ebay?
Thanks for any advice

[paoloh]

At that sort of price, I would be buying privately where I can make sure everything works/check history/test drive.