A Teesside financial services firm has merged with another North-East company.

Stockton-based financial advisors WR Financial Management Limited, based on Teesdale Business Park, has agreed a deal with Barrington Slimmings, based in Stannington, near Morpeth, Northumberland, that will create an enlarged regional practice with 14 staff across the North-East.

Barrington Slimmings will adopt the name and brand of WR Financial Management with a number of administration functions centralised to Teesside.

The Stannington office will remain open, and Tony Slimmings will adopt the role of investment director, working out of both offices.

Graham Laverick, managing director of WR Financial Management, said: “We are delighted that Tony is bringing not only his business but his experience, ideas and vision to WR Financial.

“This is an exciting time for both the business and the industry as a whole and this merger will provide the foundations of future expansion plans.”

Mr Slimmings said: “I am looking forward to bringing my business into the WR Financial fold.

“This increased critical mass will help cement my wish to provide the highest levels of customer service and allow me to spend more time with clients.”

WR Financial Management was established in 1987.