INDEPENDENT North-East car retailer Benfield Motor Group has bought two dealerships in Leeds.

The Toyota and Lexus dealerships, formerly owned by Hartwell Motor Group, have become part of the Benfield Group, which now has 22 dealerships in the North-East, Yorkshire, Cumbria and Scotland.

The addition of Toyota and Lexus brands bring the total number of franchises represented by Benfield to 11.

The two dealerships are expected to increase Benfield's annual turnover to more than £250m and consolidate the company's position as one of the UK's largest independent motor groups.

Chief executive Mark Squires said: "Bringing the Toyota and Lexus brands into our portfolio is a major boost to our business and we are very pleased to be further strengthening our presence within the vibrant Yorkshire motor retail market."

Benfield has more than 1,000 staff and with a turn-over of more than £200m is among the UK's top 30 dealer groups.