A DARLINGTON law firm has completed two multi-million pound property deals in five days.

Latimer Hinks, which has offices in Priestgate, has handled £19m worth of business through its commercial property team, headed by senior partner Tim Haggie.

Both properties are outside the North-East, which the firm says reflects its growing national reputation in the commercial property sector.

Mr Haggie, who worked on both deals, helped to purchase a shopping centre in Cumbria and the sale of an office development in Lancashire.

Both deals were completed within the strict timing deadlines required by the investors.

The law firm handled all legal aspects of the deal on behalf of the client, which is looking to develop the centre and secure its long-term future.

Mr Haggie said: "These major deals illustrate the strength of the commercial property investment market in the North of England. Investors are increasingly looking to commercial property instead of equities and interest-bearing investments.

"The strength of demand requires that sales and purchases of property investments must be handled and completed within strict timing deadlines.

"Latimer Hinks understand the need for a rapid response when it comes to commercial property and our recent achievements only reinforce our ability to exceed our clients' needs and expectations."