TWO of the North-East's best known names in legal circles have merged to create a leading regional law firm.

Solicitors Blackett, Hart & Pratt, with its origins in Durham City and bases across County Durham, has joined forces with Deas Mallen, of Newcastle.

The amalgamation creating a single firm, to be known as Blackett Hart & Pratt, came into force yesterday.

It gives the new firm more extensive coverage of the region, with seven offices, including Blackett Hart & Pratt's existing premises in Durham, Darlington and Newton Aycliffe.

John Pratt, the managing partner of the newly-merged firm, said: "This is an exciting time for all concerned.

"It is a merger for growth, and we will now be ideally placed to meet the legal needs of individuals and businesses throughout the region."