First up is graduate trainee Amelia Draper, who developed her interest in auctioneering while working at a West Devon auction house alongside her studies in Theology and Religion at Cardiff University. Now a trainee valuer and cataloguer at Chilcotts, Amelia is studying towards a diploma online as part of an in-house training programme, shadowing experienced members of the team, including Head Auctioneer Duncan , with a view to progressing to a general valuer role.

Ruth Cuthbert has been brought in to support our specialist probate and estate service; she will be the main point of contact for families and executors requiring probate valuations, house clearance and sale of contents. She brings with her 28 years’ experience in finance, including working within the property division at Clarks in Street, as well as seven years in the charity sector. Ruth’s interest in auctions dates back to childhood, having attended farming auctions with her mother, and she furnished her first home largely through auction purchases.

Completing our new intake is Callum West, who moved into a full-time portering role in January following a period of part-time work. You may have seen him before, as he's been a familiar face at Chilcotts since the age of 17! His appointment reflects a long-standing relationship with us.

Liz says it’s encouraging to welcome younger people into the sector. "Auctioneering has traditionally had a reputation for being a little musty or old-fashioned, but perceptions are changing as people recognise what an interesting and varied career path it can offer. We're proud to be spanning the generations in our recruitment, from school leavers and graduates to career changers - and to be encouraging more women into auction work.”