Auctioneer ‘delighted’ to receive Kent honour
The founder and chairman of Britain’s largest independent regional land and property auctioneer has been awarded Kent’s top civic honour.
Clive Emson was presented with the Invicta Award for his outstanding achievements and charity work across the county. He was given the trophy by KCC chairman Tom Gates at a ceremony at County Hall in Maidstone.
Mr Emson, who founded Maidstone-based Clive Emson Auctioneers in 1989, was also given a cheque for £5,000 to pass to a Kent charity of his choice.
He said: “I am delighted. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect this award.”
He decided to divide the £5,000 between the Young Lives Foundation, a charity that supports vulnerable children across Kent; the Switch Cafe for young adults in Maidstone; and the Young People’s Fund, which he set up with his wife, Sue, two years ago to give immediate help to young and vulnerable people whose needs fall outside the charitable gift criteria of established charities.
Cllr Gates said: “The Kent Invicta Award acknowledges and rewards people from across Kent who demonstrate outstanding achievement, act as an inspiration to others and who practise and encourage philanthropy within the community.
“Clive’s contribution and dedication to Kent is an example to all of us.
“I believe it is fitting that his achievements are recognised in this way.”
Mr Emson, from Ashford, has stepped back from the day-today running of his company in favour of his son, James.
The firm employs 50 people, with its headquarters at Rocky Hill, Maidstone.
‘Never in my wildest dreams did I expect this award’