LEADING West Country property partnership Greenslade Taylor Hunt is strengthening its position in West Somerset by merging with the well-regarded independent agency Chanin and Thomas.

Announcing the news at Dunster Show on Friday, Tony Overhill, partner at GTH’s Tiverton office, said: “This is an exciting time for us all as we combine the good name of Chanin & Thomas with the broader reach of GTH throughout the West Country. We look forward to working with the staff at Chanin and Thomas and meeting clients old and new.”

Mr Overhill said the merger is a 'natural fit' for both firms who 'pride themselves on their traditional values, local knowledge and experience, with a strong focus on customer care, communication and first class marketing'.

Together the firms have clocked up an impressive 275 years in the property business.

Established in 1914 Chanin and Thomas has offices in Williton and Minehead and includes chartered surveyors, auctioneers and estate agents.

This expertise will now be augmented by GTH’s work in agriculture and rural agency, development and planning, professional services and antiques.

GTH chairman Charles Clark said: "I am delighted to announce that we have agreed a merger with the firm of Chanin & Thomas. They are long established and stand for the same values of independence, professionalism and client-led services as our own. The merger gives GTH a unique position among its rivals with unprecedented coverage across Exmoor – encompassing offices in Minehead, South Molton, Tiverton and Taunton."

John Addicott, the current owner of Chanin and Thomas, is retiring and is keen to leave his firm and staff in proficient hands and with a solid future.

He said: “This merger is a most exciting development with the coming together of two like-minded, well-established firms who are able to offer a wide range of property related services throughout our known area of West Somerset and beyond. I feel confident that the respected name of Chanin and Thomas will continue in safe hands.”