A HELENSBURGH legal firm has become part of a well-known independent Scottish legal partnership.

Raeburn Hope officially became part of BTO Solicitors LLP on Monday, with the new firm to be known as BTO Raeburn Hope.

Raeburn Hope, which was set up by partner Alastair Hope in 1982, currently provides court and family services, residential and commercial conveyancing, wills and estates advice and a range of comprehensive property management and lettings services for landlords and tenants throughout the Helensburgh and Lomond area.

LATEST HEADLINES: Teens, 14, charged after assault on girl near Helensburgh station

Its partners, Alastair Hope and Kirstine MacRae, will become partners in BTO, increasing BTO’s partner numbers to 48, and their personnel will join the BTO team. It will be business as usual, however, as the Helensburgh practice continues to provide the same friendly and efficient service under the new name.

Alastair Hope said of the transfer: “Becoming part of a full service law firm such as BTO will give our clients access to a much wider range of expert services, including commercial property, employment, intellectual property, construction, debt recovery and more complex litigation and other services, which is a great plus.

"Kirstine and I are excited to be joining this progressive city law firm which will not only provide additional expertise for our clients, but access to more resources and opportunities for our Helensburgh team.”

LATEST HEADLINES: Loch Lomond site targeted in 'poo in the park' campaign

David Gibson, chairman of BTO, commented: “We are delighted that Raeburn Hope will form part of BTO.

"Joining forces with an established Helensburgh firm with a substantial client following presents BTO with an ideal opportunity to enhance our business offering and to expand in a geographical area where we already have strong existing links.

"Our union will also ensure the longevity and future growth of this well respected Helensburgh practice and it will complement BTO’s existing presence at Faslane naval base.

"We look forward to working with our new colleagues and to further developing our business together.”