Pictured above: Peter York and Jade Ince

Franklins Solicitors has signalled its faith in the region's economic future by announcing the creation of a new bespoke commercial property department in Northampton.

It's a radical new departure for the firm which previously handled all commercial property matters from its offices in central Milton Keynes. The new department will be headed by solicitors Peter York and Jade Ince who are both highly experienced in the field.

Managing Partner Michael Franklin said the move reflected the increasing amount of current and potential commercial property work in Northampton and surrounding areas and added: "With their knowledge and experience we believe that the duo of Peter and Jade make a dynamic winning team."

Peter York has some 30 years' experience as a qualified solicitor, managing both property and commercial acquisition transactions. Born in Northamptonshire, he attended Northampton Grammar School and later became a Cambridge University honours graduate. He spent most of his early legal career with a Wellingborough-based law firm. A committed 'Saints' rugby supporter he is also a keen walker and theatre-goer.

Jade Ince joined Franklins as a trainee in the firm's residential property department almost six years ago. She moved into the corporate services department after qualifying and has personally managed a wide range of commercial transactions. Both she and Peter York have extensive experience in acquisitions and disposals of freehold and commercial property as well as in drafting, negotiating and completing commercial leases on a variety of property from corner shops and office blocks to restaurants and factories.