TWO local law firms have announced a merger.

Slater Links Solicitors of Bury and Ellison Blank Goldsmith of Farnworth are now Slater Ellison.

The five partner firm operates from Broad Street, Bury with a branch office in Gatley Road, Cheadle.

The firm is expanding its operations in commercial litigation, employment, commercial property, personal injury, road traffic work and residential conveyancing.

Ellison Blank Goldsmith was established in 1946.

Managing Partner Chris Lyon and another new partner, Philip Redfern, are part of the team based in Bury.

Richard Rose of Ellison's is based in Cheadle, but will work regularly in Bury.

The number of lawyers available to advise in the practice increases to 11.

Bryan Slater and John Ringrose will be concentrating on clients' affairs - not management and administration - in the enhanced practice.

"This merger combines two well-known local practices to produce a firm that is positively suited to the rapid changes currently taking place in the legal world," Chris Lyon said.

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