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Outgoing NAVA chairman Adam Pye of Nottingham-based Auctioneers Pye & Sons, left, presents the chairman’s gavel to newly elected chairman Neil Davey, of Poole auctioneers Davey & Davey.

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Mr Davey has been at the Poole Salerooms for 30 years, starting as a porter in 1976 and ending up as the owner in 1993.

He was elected to the role at NAVA's annual general meeting held at The Marsham Court Hotel in Bournemouth on November 17. More than 80 delegates turned up from around the UK and Mr Davey gave a short presentation outlining his aims for the association over the coming years.

Top of the agenda was the debate on whether or not NAVA should join the British Association of Estate Agents, a move that would bring them considerable administrative and lobbying support, but one which is not universally popular with NAVA members.

Another key point raised by Mr Davey was the need for auctioneers to be licensed to ensure the public are protected from rogue traders. He pointed out that most of the public were still unaware that at present anyone can set themselves up as an auctioneer.

NAVA have introduced a training and exam structure to ensure that all their members are fully qualified.
At the same meeting, his brother Ian Davey, who also works in the business was elected a fellow of the society.

Other speakers at the AGM gave talks on topics including auction law and online auctions.