NEWCASTLE law firm Mincoffs is strengthening its licensing and gaming department with the appointment of licensing expert Richard Arnot to lead the team.

Mr Arnot, left, who formerly worked for Dickinson Dees, will be helped by Chris Grunert, right, who has held a senior licensing role with Mincoffs since March last year. Recognised by the Chambers UK guide to the legal profession as a "leader in the North-East's licensing field", Mr Arnot started his career with Mincoffs in 1990. In 1995, he left to advise and represent Northumbria Police on licensing cases. He joined Dickinson Dees in 1998 to set up its licensing team. He is a regional board director of the British Institute of Innkeepers and a member of the Association of Licensing Practitioners.

Howard Gold, partner at Mincoffs, said: "Richard's reputation is second to none, and we are very pleased to be able to inform our clients that he has returned to Mincoffs.

"Licensing is an increasingly complex field, with important changes taking place at the moment.

"Richard joins us at a key time to work with clients to make sure that they are fully aware of and prepared for what they are obliged to do."