Father and sons trio Kevin, Lewis and Tom Dudley have joined forces to become the new owners of Martin & Co’s St Albans branch.

The Dudleys completed a resale process for the Hertfordshire office earlier  this month purchasing the lettings and sales business from Richard and Merril Cleal, who have retired after more than a decade with the franchise operation.

Kevin and eldest son Tom were already working together in the family plumbing, heating and refurbishment business, while Lewis was previously an accountant in the estate agency sector.

Lewis says: “Because I had done client accounting for estate agents for around five years, I was aware of Martin & Co and the other Property Franchise Group high street brands. My dad and brother were running their business, but we’d always thought it would be nice to work together if we could make it happen.

“It started as a bit of a crazy idea, but I noticed the St Albans branch was up for sale so sent off an enquiry. We didn’t expect too much to come of it as it’s a great branch and we just assumed someone else would take it. But we kept going through the process with TPFG and very quickly it became a great move for us.”

All staff have been retained as part of the deal.

Eric Walker, Martin & Co managing director, adds: “I’m delighted to welcome Kevin, Lewis, and Tom to the Martin & Co family. They’re an ideal fit for the franchise and have made a real impact in St Albans already – carrying on and building upon the amazing work done by Richard and Merril, who are now enjoying a well-earned retirement.

“I know Kevin, Lewis, and Tom have big plans for the business and I look forward to seeing them flourish in their new roles.”