anticipation of the auctioning of more properties seized by banks from mortgage defaulters.

The hiring of one of the Island's top auctioneers was a prudent step for Jones Waddington to take given the current economic situation, said Mr. Arthur Jones, a partner in the firm.

"It's no secret that both banks have said they expect an increase in mortgage delinquencies,'' he said. "This is a response to that.

"Obviously if the there's a potential for the number of auctions to increase then we wanted to be in a position where we could offer a high quality service.

"With Andrea on board we will be able to do this. She is a highly skilled auctioneer.'' In the past, Mr. Jones has acted as auctioneer whenever his firm has auctioned properties.

Ms Casling, who owns auctioneering firm Hammers Etc, will be a part-time employee of Jones Waddington and will continue to spend most of her time running her business, which mostly auctions moveable possessions.