ONE of Shropshire's leading estate agents has expanded into Church Stretton to cater for an increased demand for properties in the area.

Samuel Wood and Company currently has offices in Ludlow, Craven Arms and Shrewsbury and this new base will enhance its coverage of properties surrounding the A49 corridor.

The new office was officially launched by the chairman of the firm's associate Mayfair Group, former director of Country Life Magazine, Nicholas Churton, who said: "The opening of this office is a reflection of just how far the company has gone in covering its territory in preparation for improvements in the property market. This success can be attributed to the dedication and hard work of the four partners who are all closely associated with the town and its surrounding areas and the quality of the staff they have working with them."

The Church Stretton business, situated in The Square, was formerly an estate agency run by Michael Burton, who has worked within the south Shropshire property market for over 40 years and who was a guest at the opening ceremony.

Mr Burton commented: "I am absolutely delighted that a prestigious company such as Samuel Wood has taken over the premises and residential side of my business as I have known the senior partners personally for many years. I will be continuing with my valuation and surveying work and I wish the team every success for the future."

Samuel Wood and Company partner Russell Griffin explained that the new office in Church Stretton provided the missing link in the firm's coverage of the region.

He said "The young, vibrant and enthusiastic staff based here have a great deal of local knowledge so I am sure that its future success is assured as we continue to increase instructions and sales in all sectors of the property market. We believe that we offer something a little extra thanks to our partnership with the London-based Mayfair Group and we are grateful to Nicholas Churton for coming along to perform the opening ceremony."

Samuel Wood can be contacted on 01694 722723 or www.samuelwood.co.uk.