THE merger of two rural land agencies looks set to create a major force in the agricultural sector around the region.

The joint business formed by H&H Land and Property, based in Carlisle, and Kendal's Michael CL Hodgson aims to offer a 'wide range' of land-based farming services to clients in Cumbria, north Lancashire and the Yorkshire Dales.

The land agency offices of Michael CL Hodgson will now be known as 'H&H Land and Property incorporating Michael CL Hodgson'.

Colin Tomlinson, who owned the Michael CL Hodgson brand, will remain as head of the Kendal office.

He has been appointed as a director of H&H Land and Property as part of the merger.

Mr Tomlinson said: “We have a thriving land agency which has grown significantly in recent years and our aim is to continue to build on this growth.

"Becoming part of H&H Land and Property allows us to both expand the business and the services and expertise we can offer to our clients in the national park and across northern Lancashire and the North Yorkshire Dales.”

Katie Hunter, assistant rural surveyor, will continue to work alongside Colin, and H&H Land and Property chartered surveyor Mark Barrow will join the team at Kendal.

Mr Barrow, a farmer’s son from the Eden Valley, has worked out of the Carlisle office for a number of years. He specialises in advising clients on environmental issues and is an accredited Farm Environment Plan agent. He is also experienced in solving Single Farm Payment conflicts, working with GIS mapping and preparing drawings for farm building planning applications.

Brian Richardson, chief executive of H&H Group, said: “Michael CL Hodgson is recognised as an established firm of land agents and valuers, working with farmers, rural businesses and managing a number of large to medium sized estates in areas where we do not currently have a base.

"The synergy between our two companies is very strong and this development further strengthens our standing and position within the industry.”

“With changes to farming practices, management and environmental considerations, the role of the traditional land agent has to evolve and adapt to offer clients the necessary support. By working together as a team we can draw upon decades of experience to offer a huge range of specialist skills to rural businesses across a very large geographical area.”

Professional agricultural and rural services including environmental and agricultural advice, land and property sales, valuations, acquisitions and planning are just some of the services offered by H&H Land and Property’s team of thirty six staff.