About Us - Richard Godsell

For nearly a century, Richard Godsell Estate Agents has provided trusted property advice and representation across Christchurch and Southbourne. Established in 1928, our longevity reflects not only experience but the enduring confidence our clients place in us, generation after generation.

As one of the area’s most respected independent estate agencies, our strength lies in our structure and our people. Operating from two prominent High Street offices at the heart of the communities we serve, we remain highly visible, accessible and accountable. Each branch is led by an on-site Director, ensuring every instruction benefits from senior oversight, strategic guidance, and a clear focus on achieving the strongest possible outcome. We are not a remote or volume-driven brand; we are established local professionals with a reputation built on integrity and results.

Our team comprises experienced property specialists, each bringing a minimum of a decade of industry expertise. With comprehensive knowledge of the local market and its nuances, we are all well-positioned to anticipate challenges, manage complexity and protect our clients’ interests at every stage. From straightforward sales to intricate property chains, we provide measured, informed advice and proactive progression through to successful completion.

Effective marketing remains central to securing exceptional results. Every property we represent is presented with high-quality, carefully considered exposure designed to attract motivated buyers. Alongside the significant footfall generated by our High Street presence, our clients benefit from prominent online marketing through leading portals, including Rightmove and OnTheMarket, as well as RichardGodsell.com. This multi-channel approach ensures maximum visibility within the relevant marketplace.

In addition, we harness the power of targeted digital and social media to extend reach beyond traditional channels. Through carefully curated campaigns across platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, we engage both local and relocating buyers with compelling visual content and strategic promotion. For selected properties, we also incorporate London- focused marketing initiatives, connecting with buyers and investors in the capital who are actively seeking lifestyle and coastal moves. This broader exposure ensures our clients benefit from demand not only within the immediate area, but from the wider regional and London markets.

For landlords and investors, our service extends beyond acquisition and letting. Our dedicated Lettings and Property Management Department, led by highly experienced industry professionals, provides comprehensive support – from sourcing and referencing quality tenants to full day-to-day management and compliance oversight. Many landlords retain our services long term, confident that their assets are managed with diligence, care and commercial awareness.

At Richard Godsell, we prioritise professionalism, transparency, and enduring relationships over short-term gains. Our approach is measured, accountable and results-driven. For clients seeking experienced representation, informed advice and a genuine commitment to excellence, we offer a service defined by integrity and proven experience.

Meet The Team

Alastair McCall Director Christchurch Office

01202 499466

alastair@richardgodsell.com

Alastair acquired the business in 1992, initially based at our long-established Southbourne branch. In 2003, together with Todd Gaston (now retired), he established our landmark office in the historic centre of Christchurch, where he remains based today.

With over 30 years of local industry experience, Alastair has built excellent working relationships with local solicitors, surveyors, and skilled tradespeople, connections that are often crucial in navigating complex matters and successfully completing transactions. He also brings extensive expertise in new build developments, property investment, and property management and lettings.

Somewhat unusually, until recently, Alastair combined his role at Richard Godsell with a customer-facing management position at British Airways, which for over 20 years took him around the world and presented its own unique challenges.

Alastair takes pride in being part of the most experienced and successful team in Christchurch. His professional focus, industry knowledge, and genuine passion for all things property ensure a first-class service for every client.

David Midgley Director Christchurch Office

01202 499466

david@richardgodsell.com

Since joining Richard Godsell, David has played a pivotal role in upholding the company’s long-standing reputation for integrity, transparency, and exceptional customer service. Having started his career in the property industry full-time at just 17 years old, he brings decades of hands-on experience and deep market insight to his role. Known for his approachable manner and his ability to offer an honest and reliable service. David is highly regarded by clients for achieving outstanding results especially in the most challenging market conditions.

Having lived and worked in Christchurch for many years, David understands the area’s unique character, its neighbourhoods, and the people who call it home. His extensive experience across the wider BCP area, including well-known locations such as Sandbanks and Canford Cliffs, further strengthens the scope of knowledge he offers clients.

As part of the longstanding Richard Godsell team, David continues to champion the Christchurch community, helping to preserve its traditions while supporting its ongoing growth. His dedication to the town and its people remains at the heart of everything he does.

Stuart Mason Director Southbourne Office

01202 424214

smason@richardgodsell.com

With over 33 years in the property industry, Stuart leads the Sales & Lettings team at our Southbourne office with unmatched expertise, dedication, and a deep understanding of the local market. Over the decades, he has guided countless buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants through the often complex property journey, always ensuring each transaction is handled smoothly and professionally.

Known for his calm and measured approach, Stuart has a natural ability to put clients at ease, turning what can often be a stressful process into a positive and rewarding experience. His commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of his work, from advising clients and negotiating deals to mentoring and supporting his team to achieve their best.

A trusted leader and highly respected figure in the industry, Stuart’s dedication to exceptional customer care and his ability to consistently deliver outstanding results make him a cornerstone of our Southbourne office.

Stephen Leigh-Bryant Associate Director Christchurch Office

01202 499466

steve@richardgodsell.com

Stephen is known for his warm, approachable style and his genuine passion for helping people make their next move in the Christchurch property market. Born and bred locally, Stephen has a deep connection to the community and a zest for both investment and people.

Before joining the property industry, Stephen’s career started as a financier at JP Morgan, Citibank and Macquarie Group, spanning across New York, London and Sydney, gaining valuable insights into finance and investment whilst broadening his perspective and experience.

Stephen takes pride in providing a personal, supportive service to every client, whether they’re taking their first step onto the property ladder or making a significant move within Christchurch. His approachable manner, attention to detail, and genuine enthusiasm for helping people find the right home have made him a trusted and well-liked member of the team.

Emily King Senior Negotiator Christchurch Office

01202 499466

emily@richardgodsell.com

At just 22, Emily is already making her mark on the Christchurch property market as a Senior Negotiator at Richard Godsell. Known for her enthusiasm, energy, and commitment, Emily combines a fresh perspective with a keen understanding of the local market, helping clients navigate the buying and selling process with confidence and ease.

In addition to her role, Emily also manages Richard Godsell’s social media, bringing creativity and a modern approach to showcasing the company’s properties and engaging with the Christchurch community (feel free to give us a follow on socials!) Her ability to blend traditional property expertise with a digital-knowledge approach has made her a valued member of the team and a trusted point of contact for clients of all ages.

Emily’s commitment, professionalism, and approachable nature ensure that every client receives exceptional service, while her passion for property and the local community continues to shape her growing reputation within the industry.

Jade Morrell Branch Administrator Christchurch Office

01202 499466

christchurch@richardgodsell.com

Jade is the heartbeat of Richard Godsell’s Christchurch team, ensuring the office runs like clockwork and the team stays focused on delivering exceptional service.

With a keen eye for detail and a knack for keeping multiple tasks on track, she seamlessly manages schedules, paperwork, and office operations, often juggling a coffee in one hand and a to-do list in the other.

Her dedication behind the scenes allows the team to work efficiently and confidently, knowing every client interaction is supported by her careful planning and attention to detail. Whether coordinating appointments, managing documentation, or keeping the office environment calm and organised, Jade ensures every client experience is smooth and professional, while keeping potential chaos firmly under control.

Sam Humby Sales Manager Southbourne Office

01202 424214

shumby@richardgodsell.com

With over 15 years of experience across both London’s competitive property market and the South Coast, Sam brings a strong blend of strategic insight, lettings expertise, and local knowledge to his role as Sales Manager at Southbourne.

Known for providing clear, straightforward advice, Sam creates a supportive and stress-free experience from the first meeting to completion. He has a particular talent for sales progression, ensuring every transaction moves smoothly from instruction to completion while achieving maximum impact for his clients. He balances professionalism with warmth, helping clients feel confident, informed, and reassured throughout the property journey.

Well regarded in the Southbourne community, Sam combines local expertise with a personal touch, supporting vendors and applicants alike while consistently delivering exceptional results and a service clients trust and value.

Rebecca Doddrell Senior Negotiator Southbourne Office

01202 424214

rdoddrell@richardgodsell.com

With over 15 years of local property experience and a background at Newmans of Tuckton, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a naturally intuitive approach to her role as Sales Negotiator. Her deep understanding of the Southbourne market is matched by her ability to connect effortlessly with people from all walks of life.

Highly adaptable, she tailors her communication style to each individual, ensuring every client feels understood, supported, and fully at ease. Her empathetic and caring nature shines through in every interaction, whether guiding first-time buyers through an unfamiliar process or helping long-term residents make their next move with confidence.

Known for her energy, warmth, and commitment to doing what’s right for her clients, she creates a positive, reassuring experience from start to finish, making each property journey feel both smooth and genuinely personal.

Lauren Sidwell Southbourne Branch Administrator Southbourne Office

01202 424214

admin@richardgodsell.com

Lauren leads our fast-paced administration department, keeping the office running smoothly and our social media seamlessly managed. With over 20 years of experience across sales, marketing, and administration in the property, private health insurance, and finance and commercial recruitment sectors.

What sets Lauren apart is her genuine kindness and empathy, and her natural supportive nature. With a positive mindset and professional approach, Lauren ensures every client has a channel of support and confidence while keeping operations seamless behind the scenes.

A true champion of the sales team, Lauren keeps everyone organised, supported, and ready to succeed. Her thoughtful approach, attention to detail, and dedication to improving processes guarantee that internal operations flow effortlessly and every client interaction is handled with genuine care and professionalism.