Long-standing Winkworth franchisees Michael Foldvari and James Hathaway have expanded their presence in Berkshire with the acquisition of Winkworth’s Newbury office.

The pair opened Winkworth Reading in 2014, and run an office focusing on sales, lettings and property management in and around the Reading area.

The purchase of Winkworth Newbury is from franchisee Sandra Haines, who is stepping away from frontline agency work to pursue other interests.

Winkworth Newbury will continue in its office in Northbrook Street, Newbury, with the current team continuing to work with the new owners.

Country house specialist Alun Graham has been appointed to focus on the prime country market and Matthew Bates, former MD of Berkshire and Oxfordshire agents Davis Tate, joins as network manager.

Foldvari said: “Acquiring Winkworth Newbury is a natural progression for us, extending our coverage of West Berkshire. Newbury offers many opportunities.”

“We have an effective existing team in place, with some outstanding expertise added with Matthew Bates and Alun Graham. This is an exciting new chapter in the growth of our Winkworth business,” he added.

Dominic Agace, chief executive of Winkworth, commented: “Michael and James have built up a flourishing business and their expansion taking over Newbury gives Winkworth a substantial strategic presence in a prime market in West Berkshire, with its combination of idyllic villages and towns, and excellent road and rail links to London and the West Country.

“Michael and James’ entrepreneurial approach, backed by Winkworth’s exceptional brand and digital presence, illustrates the opportunities we can offer to ambitious property professionals looking to start a business of their own.”