A Sutton businesswoman who specialises in tracking down distant relatives of people who have died without a will has won two top awards.
Simonne Llewellyn, CEO of Finders International, received national recognition at the 2026 Probate Industry Awards for her work in probate genealogy, with her firm named both Probate Research Firm of the Year and Service Provider of the Year.
The ceremony, held in London and hosted by comedian Omid Djalili, also saw Finders International highly commended in the Story of the Year category.
The firm is widely known for its involvement in the BBC programme Heir Hunters, which documents the work of probate genealogists tracing beneficiaries to unclaimed estates.
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The judges commended Finders International for its "exceptional professionalism, depth of expertise and commitment to client outcomes," noting its ability to deliver a diverse and innovative range of services within the probate sector.
Probate genealogy involves tracing heirs to estates where no will exists, ensuring that inheritance reaches the right relatives rather than defaulting to the Crown. This often involves piecing together complex family histories using historical records and reaching out to relatives across the UK and overseas.
Finders International is one of the largest probate genealogy firms in the country, and its work has a direct impact on families and communities by helping reconnect long-lost relatives and resolving legal matters.
The Probate Industry Awards celebrate excellence across the sector, recognising outstanding achievement among probate solicitors, genealogists, and service providers. Core values such as business performance, client care, and social impact are at the heart of the judging criteria.
The rising number of intestate estates—cases where individuals die without leaving a will—has made the work of probate researchers increasingly vital. In addition to ensuring that estates are distributed fairly, firms like Finders International support the work of already stretched public services.
The ceremony’s host, Omid Djalili, is one of the UK’s most beloved comedians and actors, with a career spanning more than 30 years. He is also known for his performances at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and his roles in major films such as Gladiator, The Mummy, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, and Notting Hill.
Djalili has also starred in The Omid Djalili Show on the BBC and is widely respected for his advocacy, particularly as a vocal supporter of the Iranian people.
The awards highlighted the growing importance and emotional impact of probate genealogy, as well as the vital role it plays in supporting families, communities, and the wider legal system.
