OXFORD: Law firm Manches has appointed John Castell as a partner in its commercial property team.

Mr Castell will work alongside partners Richard Smith and Robert Lynch, advising corporate real estate occupiers, developers and funders and will be one of five partners in the Thames Valley property department.

After working for Shoosmiths in Reading Mr Castell became managing partner of Garretts. He subsequently joined Olswang, before moving to the City office of United States firm Crowell & Moring.

Manches managing partner Richard Smith said: “As a result of John’s connections, Manches will handle UK property work for Crowell & Moring’s clients.

“We will also work in collaboration with Crowell & Moring to develop opportunities for our mutual clients, both in the UK and US.”