Freshfields gains dual Cattles instruction

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has won a double role on the investigation into sub-prime lender Cattles' finances, advising the company as well as leading the review.

Last month Cattles, which today suspended three senior executives including its finance director, announced that it's annual financial results would be delayed.

An independent forensic review led by Freshfields and accountancy firm Deloitte is now looking into all aspects of the company's finances.

Freshfields dispute resolution partners David Scott (pictured) and Ali Sallaway are leading the review. Deloitte is not receiving separate legal advice for its role in the investigation.

Freshfields is also advising the company in relation to the forensic investigation, with corporate partner Gareth Stephenson leading.

Stephenson has advised the company since December 2007, when it turned to him for advice on a rights issue.

On that deal Freshfields worked alongside Yorkshire firm Walker Morris, which has been a longstanding Cattles adviser. The underwriting banks were advised by Linklaters.