A FIRM of solicitors in Darlington has boosted its commercial department with the appointment of a new member of staff.

Close Thornton Solicitors, in Duke Street, Darlington, has employed Malcolm Woolfe to specialist in company and commercial property matters.

Formerly with Ward Hadaway in Newcastle, Mr Woolfe obtained a first class law degree at the University of Northumbria.

Chris Wiper, senior partner, said: "Malcolm's arrival boosts the firm's commercial department and is part of our commitment to serving existing and future commercial clients in the Darlington area."