REGIONAL law firm Trethowans has opened an office in the centre of Bournemouth.

The company, which already has a base in Poole, now has more than 50 staff in Dorset, including several key personnel who have relocated to the new base at Space House in Oxford Road.

Trethowans, which saw 22.6 per cent growth in 2017, was named the fastest-growing independent law firm with turnover of up to £24million.

Managing partner Chris Whiteley said: “This office is an initial stepping stone into Bournemouth and we are delighted that our new town centre base will allow us to build further strong connections in Dorset alongside our Poole offering.”

“The corporate and commercial teams will have lawyers based out of the Bournemouth office. However, staff from all teams will work across all offices and the Bournemouth office will also be used to meet clients in relation to their personal affairs.”

Emma Sainsbury, business development manager, will work at the new office, while Mark Nixon, senior associate in corporate, and Nick Gent, partner in corporate and banking, are based there.

Partner Garry Treagust led the search for the office, owned by Matt Skerrett, and the letting was arranged by James Edwards at Goadsby Commercial.