A BURY law firm is "streets ahead" when it comes to consolidating its presence in the town which spans a remarkable three centuries.

Butcher & Barlow has just brought back into use a suite of rooms previously occupied by the firm more than 75 years ago.

And the move means that the company now commands the whole of one side of Bank Street which is the site of its head office.

Senior partner Mr Charles Barlow explained: "Latterly, this section of the building had been used by Bury Law Centre. But now, it means that the whole building is occupied by us for the first time since before World War Two."

The rooms are undergoing a new lease of life following a refurbishment which included covering over a courtyard area and other work. "We spent a six-figure sum and the refurbishment took about four months to complete," added Mr Barlow. "All in all, it was a lot of work."

He continued: "The reason why we decided to bring the suite of rooms back into use was that we needed the space. They now house our conveyancing, cashiers and matrimonial departments."

The firm was founded in 1887 and is now in its fourth generation. The long-established and respected law firm which began life in Bury has stayed true to its roots. Although the business has expanded significantly over the years, its head office remains in the town.

Butcher & Barlow has a total of 10 offices spread throughout North Manchester, Lancashire and Cheshire and employs a 150-strong staff.

Mr Barlow, great grandson of the founder, is proud of the company's history and its links with Bury.

Looking to the future, he said: "We want to keep on growing. You either go forward or fall back, but never stand still."