HIGHLY experienced auctioneer and valuer David Brookes has joined auction house Mitchells in Cockermouth after seventeen years at 1818 Auctioneers in Kendal.

Working from his home in Windermere, David will now represent Mitchells in the South Lakes and wider area, providing clients with a valuation, probate and consignment service from a more convenient local base.

He will also cover the Furness Peninsula, North Lancashire and into the Yorkshire Dales.

Originally from Cheshire, David started his career in Alderley Edge working for a provincial auctioneers then the London auction house Phillips and auctioneers in Derbyshire and East Yorkshire.

He moved to Cumbria in 2005 to help develop Kendal Auction Rooms, now 1818 Auctioneers, where he has worked until his recent move to Mitchells.

Having missed the theatricality of the live auction, David is pleased to be moving to Mitchells where auctions are still held in their atmospheric saleroom in Cockermouth, with live online bidding reaching the international market.

He said that he is 'glad to be back out on the road, dealing face to face with clients'.

Mitchells’ Saleroom Director Mark Wise said: “We’re delighted David has decided to join us. His extensive experience as a valuer and deep knowledge of the South Lakes and wider area are a tremendous asset to Mitchells.

"Our clients in the south of the region will greatly benefit from the convenience of having a locally based representative on their doorstep.”

David is planning a series of free valuation events in the South Lakes area soon, starting in Windermere. Meanwhile, he can be contacted via Mitchells office on 01900 827800 or by email at david.brookes@mitchellsantiques.co.uk to arrange free valuations and home visits.