Rory Penn has been named as Knight Frank’s new head of London sales after James Clarke was forced to step down due to ill-health.

Clarke, who has been in the role for two years, was recently diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), an extremely rare condition with just over 1,000 people diagnosed annually.

James, with support from Knight Frank, will spend this year fundraising to help others with MND. He will officially be succeeded in his existing role by Penn on Monday.

With more than  20 years’ experience working in the property industry, Penn, who set up Knight Frank’s Private Office in 2018, will also become chair of the firm’s private office in Baker Street.

Tim Hyatt, head of residential at Knight Frank, commented: “It is with great sadness we announce that James Clarke will be stepping down as head of London sales, following his diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease earlier in the year.

“James has been a remarkable leader of the London business and a true asset to the firm, he is now admirably focusing his time in raising awareness of Motor Neurone Disease, something of which our partners, friends and family are fully supporting.

“Under Rory’s leadership, with the full support of the residential management team, I have no doubt our London business will continue to go from strength to strength.”