About Stephen Drake

I have worked at Willingham Auctions for 25 years, starting as an Auction Assistant and rising to Auctioneer, sale-room manager and Senior Valuer.I now work with Batemans Auctioneers in Stamford as a specialist valuer and Hansons Hertfordshire as valuer and auctioneer. I am capable of undertaking appraisals in all categories including jewellery, furniture, paintings, silver, and collectables.

I have conducted probate valuations for private clients, Trustees, Executors, and Solicitors, compiling each valuation to be compliant with HMRC regulations. I can arrange and give advice on the whole process of valuation, organise selling items through auction, and having the property cleared ready for sale in a discreet and professional manner.

I can also arrange detailed insurance valuations at the current replacement values and valuations for auction of either single items or whole house contents.

Stephen Drake in the Media

Stephen Drake's expertise and notable valuations have been featured in major publications,recognizing his authority in the valuation and auctioneering industry:

The Guardian - "Auctioneer Career" (2009) Featured in The Guardian's career guidance, highlighting the auctioneering profession andspecialist valuer roles. Read Article

BBC News - Cambridgeshire Feature BBC News UK coverage of significant findings and valuations in the Cambridgeshire area, showcasing expert work on important discoveries. Read Article

Daily Mail - "Mystery Essex Sarcophagus" (2013) Featured in Daily Mail's science and archaeology section for discovering a 3,000-year-old Egyptian sarcophagus lid during a house clearance. The article highlights the remarkable find of a cobweb-covered ancient coffin discovered leaning against a wall - a discovery that made national news. Read Article

ITV News Anglia.(2016) "The Letters of Henry Root" discovered in a downstairs toilet| ITV News Anglia. Read Article

These discoveries exemplifies how professional property clearance and valuation work can uncover truly remarkable items. You never know what treasures might be hidden in your home!