A BLACK Country solicitors, with offices in Dudley, Halesowen and Stourbridge, has announced it topped £50 million in transactions in the last year.

Quality Solicitors Talbots made the announcement at a special networking event designed to promote the region’s first ever Black Country Day.

Mark Hodgson, head of the business services team, said: "We secured our best ever year, with 20 per cent more deals completed involving major retailers, entertainment venues, construction companies and manufacturers.

"Lawyers from QualitySolicitors Talbots undertook sales and acquisitons, franchise sale and purchases, negotiating supply agreements, whilst also providing support in disputes, employment and licensing."

This included high profile transactions, such as the £4 million Casino 36 in Wolverhampton, acting for a major fast-food franchisee in securing an additional three restaurants in the area and pro-bono assistance for Unit3sixty, a new skatepark in Stourbridge.

Mr Hodgson added: “We are very proud of our Black Country roots, with nearly 90 per cent of our £6m turnover generated from supporting individuals or firms in the area.

“Most of our staff live locally and understand what makes this region so special, which is important when delivering high quality, no-nonsense legal advice.

"Over the last decade we have gone from two offices to seven and our workforce has trebled to 170.

"A £500,000 investment last year saw us establish a dedicated presence in Dudley and we are always on the look out for new opportunities to increase our geographical coverage of the area.”

Quality Solicitors Talbots invited more than 50 business leaders, customers and suppliers to its Black Country Day celeberations last week.

The firm joined forces with well known Netherton pub The Old Swan (aka Ma Pardoe’s) to put on a traditional night of ale and local food, including scratchings, black pudding and pork pie.

Entertainment was provided by Black Country Gaz, legendary comedian Aynuk, local poetry from Marlene of Quarry Bank and Empty Can’s James Stevens, who gave a rousing rendition of the Black Country anthem.

Mark added: “It was a fantastic night and a real celebration of our humour, our music and some of the ‘bostin’ characteristics that makes us special."