The wife of a paedophile has taken the reins at a well-known auction house in Chippenham.
Richard Edmonds Auctions director Richard Edmonds, 46, was jailed after a jury convicted him of five counts of sexual activity with a female child at Swindon Crown Court.
His wife Tora Edmonds – who previously headed up accounts and marketing – has confirmed she is now managing the business following her husband’s eight-year prison sentence.
In an update, she said: “Day to day management has been by my husband Richard Edmonds (Jnr) with responsibility for valuations, cataloguing and auctioneering.
“I have been responsible for the customer accounts, marketing, and involved with the preparation of the catalogues.
“Richard Jnr is no longer involved with the business nor a director.”
She added: “I now assume responsibility for the general management of the business in addition to my previous roles. Richard Snr, his wife Margaret and daughter Sarah will continue to be part of the business.
“Support will be employed for the valuations and cataloguing of the auctions, along with independently employed auctioneers. We believe this will provide a continuing sound business structure for the future in the family freehold premises at Showell Farm.”
The update also confirmed that Chippenham Auctions and Richard Edmonds Auctions will merge into one – but shall retain the name Richard Edmonds Auctions.