A SAFFRON Walden-based estate agent has joined an elite group by becoming one of the first estate agents in the UK to be awarded the Diploma in Residential Estate Agency (DipREA). Remi Gannon, of Cheffins Estate Agents, is one of only 53 agents across the

A SAFFRON Walden-based estate agent has joined an elite group by becoming one of the first estate agents in the UK to be awarded the Diploma in Residential Estate Agency (DipREA).

Remi Gannon, of Cheffins Estate Agents, is one of only 53 agents across the whole of the country to be awarded the diploma, which is a vocational qualification set by the National Federation of Property Professionals (NFOPP).The main aim is to raise professional standards and to recognise excellence.

Remi - who has worked in the industry for six years and is now a senior negotiator - studied for more then 350 hours, passed four rigorous examinations, and completed a 6000 word dissertation in training and development to secure the qualification.

Head of membership and professionalism development at NFOPP, Ruth Lilley, said: "I heartily congratulate Remi's achievement. The award is tangible evidence of a commitment to best practice and the highest standards of professionalism.