Bournemouth-born and bred, he started his auctioneering career at Riddett & Ede in 1950 in Bournemouth Square. Michael progressed with the auction house as it expanded and became known as Riddett & Adams Smith – then Riddetts. He remained at Riddetts for 38 years as one of the partners and finally becoming the senior partner.
Michael also went on to work at Phillips Auctioneers before joining Cottees Bullock and Lees Auction Rooms in Wareham, Dorset, as a consultant auctioneer – where he was joined by his son Nick who followed his father into the profession as an auctioneer and valuer.
In 1992 Michael opened his own auction house business in Boscombe, Bournemouth - joined by his wife Marion and his son Nick. The business ran successfully for seven years until Michael’s retirement in 1999.
Throughout his long career Michael was a member of the Institute of Surveyor Valuers and Auctioneers (ISVA), now part of RICS, joining the local committee, becoming chairman and subsequently joining the main committee of the fine arts section of the ISVA. Also, he became chairman and an examiner for ISVA qualifications.
He had been very proactive in the local charity associations and business community, holding various high office positions and raising funds through auctions and talks. Michael undertook a number of charitable auctions for The New Forest Conservative Association and received a personal thank you from the then prime minister for all his efforts.
He was knowledgeable and passionate about English porcelain and a very keen and active sportsman, playing football, squash, golf and bowls, and rowing.
His son Nick continues in the profession and is a consultant auctioneer for House & Son Auctioneers in Bournemouth. You can contact the family c/o DericScott Funeral Directors on 01202 309609.
From family
