TWO of North Yorkshire's leading professional firms have joined forces to help rescue a well-known West Yorkshire retailer.

Selby-based accountants JW Pickles & Co and solicitors Philip Ashworth & Co, of York, have advised in the relaunch from administration of value clothing and homeware goods retailer Readmans, which suffered financial difficulties.

The two firms have helped Alex Readman and Daniella Preston, grandchildren of the founder, Alfred Readman, save more than 105 jobs by re-launching the business trading out of its largest retail store in Holbeck, Leeds, and its longest-established store in Birkenshaw, Bradford.

Alfred Readman founded the business in 1963 trading from Leeds outdoor market. Readmans went on to open five stores in Leeds, Bradford, Batley, Rotherham and Sheffield in the 1980s and 1990s.

Alex Readman said: "We are grateful to Philip Ashworth & Co and JW Pickles & Co for their expertise and advice in helping us to assemble a fast, practical rescue package."

Updated: 11:18 Friday, July 01, 2005