A firm of chartered surveyors is merging with a rival to increase its hold on the lucrative market in the Midlands.

Clayson Haselwood, based in Banbury, is joining forces with Fisher German, which has six offices across Leicestershire, Worcestershire and Staffordshire.

The move will strengthen Clayson's position as a rural property consultancy and extend its agricultural, development, residential sales and professional business across Northamptonshire to Market Harborough and west to Evesham.

The new firm will practise from Banbury as Clayson Haselwood Fisher German.

Paul Clayson and Charles Haselwood will remain as partners, while Henrietta Bradshaw and Andrew Ranson will continue as associates.

Marcus Blake will become an associate, with Douglas Reid heading a larger residential department.

Mr Haselwood said: "The merged business will bring together strengths from both firms and provide clients with professional advice on all rural property issues across the Midlands".