KIDDERMINSTER-based law firm mfg solicitors has unveiled a new taxation department to cope with growing demand for the service.

The specialist team, which is based at the firm’s Adam House headquarters in Kidderminster, will be headed up by Stephen Meredith who has also been promoted to partner.

An inheritance tax and succession planning specialist, Stephen joined mfg in summer 2014 as a tax consultant. He will now lead the department, working closely with associate Gary Priest and senior consultant Alan Neal, a nationally-recognised tax expert.

The establishment of the new team follows an ‘unprecedented’ 12 months of growth which has seen mfg advising on tax and trust matters for clients across the UK.

Valerie Robinson, partner and head of mfg’s private client division, said: “In recent months we have seen a substantial increase in the number of clients placing their trust in Stephen and the team to handle some extremely intricate tax matters.

“These are clients from all corners of the country so I am delighted with the impact we are making and how we have improved an already strong reputation.

“I am certain that Stephen will continue to drive the department forward in his new role as partner and maintain our competitive edge. Gary and Alan are also both hugely respected for the unique tax services they offer and are central to the success of the team.”

Credited with establishing the firm’s tax department, Mr Neal is renowned for the pivotal role he played in a series of high profile farm-related taxation cases in the UK.

Mr Priest, meanwhile, has been with mfg since 2005 and specialises in all tax matters working especially in the rural sector with landowners, farmers and owner-managed businesses.

Within Worcestershire mfg Solicitors has offices in Worcester, Kidderminster and Bromsgrove.