Pitmans to launch in London

Reading-based firm Pitmans is opening an office in London from 3 May 2005 to service its growing workload.

The firm has seen a fee income increase of more than 20 per cent in the last five years. It has traditionally had an IT and TMT client base in the South East, but has seen a steady growth in its banking, corporate and planning work in the City, and docklands.

The corporate practice has gained instructions since recruiting corporate partner Janice Wall, from Dechert in September 2004 who specialises in M& A, property finance and joint ventures.

Christopher Avery, managing partner said: "We are seeing a substantial increase in our work in the capital and these offices will allow us to provide a stronger service to clients there."

The new offices will be at fashionable No. 1 Cornhill Row.

The commercial Thames Valley firm has 20 partners 2 consultants and a staff of 215.