Life in the 'real world'

ESTATE agent Brian Castle watched the local election with interest, but with a perspective different from that from previous years.

For 30 years, until November, Brian was a civil servant working in a variety of States departments, having been, among other things, chief officer of Housing and IDC and head of human resources in the Policy Council.

'Previous elections have meant a new president or minister for me to work with and, like my colleagues in the service, I used to watch the outcome with some interest,' he said.

But at the end of last year, he left the States for another pursuit – property. Brian bought the well established local firm of Cranford Estate Agency from long-time friend Jerry Root and swapped his desk in the 'Custard Castle' for a life of valuations, viewings and take-ons.

He relishes the challenge of his new role and is thoroughly enjoying life as an estate agent.

'Although it can be pretty hectic at times, it is great to be out on the road – having been desk-bound for so long,' said Mr Castle.

Brian was delighted to work with Julie Carre and Sarah Warr, property manager/director and office manager respectively, who both have years of experience in property.

They are now moving on to new challenges, however, and Brian is pleased to welcome Kate Worthington as the firm's new property manager.

She previously worked for Martel Maides and for the last three years was a conveyancing clerk at Collas Day.

The new office manager is Kirsty Green who joined Cranford from Swoffers where she had worked in many different aspects of the property business.

'I am very fortunate to have recruited such experienced and enthusiastic staff to form our new team and look forward to working with them,' he said.

'Jerry is staying on in a consulting role and, together with Kate and Kirsty, we will be maintaining and developing the professional service which the company has provided for its clients for over 35 years.'

Brian is optimistic about the local property market as he feels that the island is insulated from many of the problems being experienced in the US and the UK.

'It is important to take a long-term view on property and the reality is that for most of the time in Guernsey, demand far outweighs supply.'

In leaving the States for the private sector or the 'real world' as he calls it, Brian is still keen to contribute to the community and was pleased to be elected onto the council at the recent Chamber of Commerce AGM.

'For the Chamber to continue to be effective, it must have a close relationship with the States and, with my background, I hope to help to foster and develop that.'

For anyone thinking of a complete change of direction career-wise, Brian would encourage individuals to take the leap.

'It was rather scary, but I have had terrific support from family, friends and staff and, although I miss my colleagues in the States, I am glad that I made the move and very much look forward to the future.'