A big rise in commercial property deals in the district is a sign of Bradford's growth and regeneration, according to an expanding Bradford law firm.

After experiencing a "substantial growth" of 36 per cent in property transactions in the last year, Gordons is now predicting another buoyant year in 2008.

Paul Young, commercial property partner at Gordons, said: "Bradford can look forward to a prosperous and commercially active 2008.

"The last 12 months have seen substantial growth in the number of property transactions undertaken by the team and we see no sign of this slowing down.

"We have enjoyed a tremendous amount of success which has allowed us to expand and win new business. There is no doubt that the increase in the number of deals we have done reflects the city's ongoing growth and regeneration.

"We are now looking forward to 2008 where we believe our commitment to Bradford, and the services provided by our team will allow us to continue to grow."

Gordons has the largest commercial property department in the city and expanded further last year through the acquisition of another Bradford firm, David Yablon Solicitors, which brought commercial property lawyers Lester Christie and Joanne Dixon into the team Gordons commercial property lawyers advise a range of clients from small owner-managed businesses to large plcs, including high profile companies such as mail order giant Grattan and brewers Timothy Taylor.

Public sector clients include Bradford Council and the community-led company Bradford Trident which is transforming the Park Lane, Marshfields and West Bowling areas of the city.

Established in Bradford in 1844, Gordons opened its Leeds office in 2000. The firm's clients also include Morrison Supermarkets, personal care and footwear and accessories company Peter Black Group, international brewers Coors and the world's largest electrical heating business, Glen Dimplex.

Gordons' turnover for the last financial year was £18.7m, up seven per cent on the previous year, while the acquisition of David Yablon Solicitors will further increase Gordons' fee income by over £2m in the next year.

The firm employs 303 people, including 167 fee earners.