Now the current incarnation of the lineage – Richard Winterton Auctioneers – has marked a quarter of a century since Richard Winterton and his wife Janet took over the family business in their own right.

Since opening at The Schoolhouse in Burton in 1997, more than half a million lots have gone under the hammer with the firm, whose auctions today attract thousands of online bidders from all over the world as well as local people in the room at The Lichfield Auction Centre, Fradley Park, and The Tamworth Auction Rooms.

The anniversary was marked by a celebration ball for all staff and their partners at The School House, Weeford – the venue’s name giving a coincidental nod to those first premises in Burton.

The April 14 event saw Mr and Mrs Winterton presented with a surprise gift from staff of a picture by favourite artist Doug Hyde.

In a speech to staff at the start of the evening, Mr Winterton spoke of his ‘immense pride’ in the achievements of the past 25 years and summed up the milestone as ‘emotional’.

“From the word go the important thing for us very early doors was to do things properly and that continues today,” he said.

Sons Tom, Ben, James and Harry are now all part of the business and on top of his day job Mr Winterton is a familiar face on television programmes such as BBC Bargain Hunt and Dickinson’s Real Deal on ITV.

The auctioneer is chair of governors at Holy Trinity CE Primary School in Burton and is especially proud of the partnerships forged between the firm and local charities and organisations including We Love Lichfield, Burton Albion Community Trust, Burton YMCA, The Hub at St Mary’s in Lichfield, the Lichfield Garrick and Support Staffordshire’s Volunteer Star Awards.

Richard Winterton Auctioneers is also headline sponsor for both Staffordshire’s Best Kept Village Community Competition and Lichfield Cathedral’s Christmas illuminations.

“Jan and I want to say thank you to everyone who has been with us on this tremendous journey, especially to loyal staff and clients who have been with us for years,” Mr Winterton added.

“It’s not been easy but I am proud of where we have come to.

“And it seems we are busier than ever. I think we’re busy because we do it the right way.”

An associate member of The National Association of Jewellers, the firm’s Spring Fine Art Sale included a sought-after 1970s Rolex ‘single red’ Submariner Date wristwatch in stainless steel, which sold for £17,000 on behalf of a local vendor.

The same auction featured a 19th century ‘parure’ – a suite of jewellery – crafted from multi-coloured and vari-patterned Roman glass, which sold at £5,800.

As well as dealing in jewellery, watches, fine art and all types of collectables, the firm provides a bespoke house clearance service which has expanded greatly – in March alone, Mr Winterton visited 82 houses to give quotations and the team cleared 62 properties.

For free valuation appointments and auction enquiries, telephone 01543 406124 or email office@richardwinterton.co.uk.

The family firm celebrated the 25th anniversary in style with a glittering celebration ball for all staff and their partners at The School House, Weeford. Photo: Fraser Hinch Video 

Richard and Janet Winterton were presented with a surprise gift at the celebration – a work by favourite artist Doug Hyde. They are pictured with sons Tom, Ben, James and Harry.