A new digital service has been launched by a West Country property auctioneer.

Clive Emson Auctioneers Online complements the firm’s live auctions held every six weeks at five venues from Cornwall to Essex, including at St Mellion International Resort in Cornwall.

Bidders, who must first undergo statutory anti-money laundering checks, can download each lot’s legal documents, then make offers in the run up to the cut-off date and time.

Once the clock has reached zero, the highest bid is accepted if it is above reserve.

As in a live auction, the fall of the gavel means immediate purchase and exchange, with completion within 28 days and all of the legal responsibilities that entails.