Growing property firm Pattinson Estate Agency has made its third acquisition in six months after swooping for a County Durham-based business.

The Silverlink Business Park-based company has taken over Stanley based NS Bennett Estate Agency, after owner Stephen Bennett announced his retirement. The office has become Pattinson’s 28th branch in the North East, and the company said most of the staff are transferring to the new owners.

The deal follows the earlier acquisitions of Ryedales Estate Agency in Cramlington, and Browns in Stockton and Norton.

Group managing director Justin Beckwith said: “This is another great addition for us as a company as a whole, as well as for our sales, lettings and commercial departments. We have 27 branches spanning across the North East, and this 28th Pattinson branch gives us a presence in Stanley central. I would like to welcome the team from NS Bennetts, and founder and owner Stephen Bennett is assisting with the transition before enjoying his retirement.”

NS Bennett and Associates is a local family company which has operated for more than 50 years across Stanley, Consett, Durham and Chester-le-Street.

Owner Mr Bennet said: “After several years in this business, I am now looking to retire. I would like to reassure all our existing customers, whether sellers and/or landlords, that they will continue to receive a high level of service without inconvenience or disruption. For clients, I anticipate that there will be very little change as the existing teams will continue to look after you under the Pattinson brand. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal customers past and present who have shown us their continued support in our business over the decades.”

Chairman and founder of Pattinson Estate Agency, Keith Pattinson, said: “Whilst we are sad to see the end of an era with Stephen Bennett’s retirement, we are more than happy to ensure that this is a smooth transition for their clients. Everything is largely remaining the same for their clients, except for a name change to Pattinson Estate Agency.

“For us as a business, the NS Bennett’s sales and lettings team joining us is a perfect fit. Having got to know the team we are confident that they have a similar client focused approach to selling, renting and managing properties as we do. We have been a family run independent estate agency for nearly 50 years, in that time we have seen a great deal of change but one thing which never has is our focus on customers and trying to ensure that we offer the best customer service. We wish Stephen all the best in his retirement.”