Key appointments and qualification successes are being celebrated at 1818 Auctioneers at Junction 36 Rural Auction Centre as the team begins operating from a second saleroom which opened last month (Dec 2024).
Bringing the total staff count to 23, the three valuers to join in the last four months are:
Tony Godfree, Medals, Arms & Militaria Valuer, a passionate military enthusiast, who specialises in medals and related research. A member of the Orders and Medals Research Society since 1983, Tony is also an active contributor to both the British Medal Forum and Great War Forum.
Liam Collins, Paintings, Artwork & Imagery Valuer, is an experienced photographer and art professional. Liam brings extensive expertise in photography equipment, art books, and fine art. Previously a lecturer at Kendal College, Liam holds a BA (Hons) in Photography from the University of Cumbria.
Stuart McPherson, General Valuer, whose lifelong passion for history and antiques inspired him to earn an honours Master’s degree in the History of Art & Architecture from the University of Edinburgh. His knowledge encompasses a broad range of antiques and decorative items.
The three new valuers join Antique Textiles & Fashions Valuer Bethan Thorsby who is six months into her role. Bethan, a Lake District based illustrator and designer has a bachelor’s degree in Art History & Curating from the Manchester School of Art. Bethan’s passion for vintage fashion and its rich history has led her to take on a valuer role, adding to a portfolio of jobs in the creative industries.
Congratulations also extend to team members achieving professional milestones. They are:
Rowan Hughes, Silver & Jewellery Valuer, has added a prestigious Gem-A diploma from the Gemmological Association to her MSc in Collecting & Provenance in an International Context (University of Glasgow) and her BA (Hons) in Medieval & Early Modern History (Aberystwyth University). Rowan completed the diploma in August 2024.
James Middleton has been promoted to Junior Valuer after completing his apprenticeship. He gained Business Admin Level 3 and Team Leading & Management Level 2 qualifications at Kendal College. James is now studying remotely the ILM Level 3 Diploma in Leadership & Management course.
And Mark MacEwan who spends one day a week at 1818 Auctioneers is studying T Level Business & Finance at Kendal College.
Saleroom Manager Bill Nelson said: “We’ve 12 valuers now on our team, covering an expansive range of subjects. We’re also recruiting for a Coins Valuer. You can start a career in the auctioneering world at any stage. Our team is made up of people with differing levels of experience, from those who are studying a college to those who retiring and looking for a career change. It’s a great business to work in and, as we are now fully operational from both salerooms, this is an exciting time for the team.”
Anyone with items to be valued, whether it’s medals, military memorabilia, paintings, photographs, or antiques, can contact 1818 Auctioneers on 015395 66201. Details of all team members and services can also be found on the firm’s website 1818auctioneers.co.uk.
