Thirlwells, one of Teesside’s best-known estate agents, has changed its name.

Having taken over from founders Margaret and Keith Thirlwell in 2004, partners Wendy Clarke and Nicola Munro have decided the time is right to put their names to the business, which will now be known as Clarke Munro.

The company, which opened in June 1977, was officially relaunched by Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen, with a special virtual celebration held via Facebook Live, attended by clients, suppliers, friends and staff.

Aside from the name change, the duo have commissioned a new logo and branding for the business.

Clarke, who joined Thirlwells in 1979 as an office junior, commented: “We’re proud of the Thirlwells legacy, but we felt the brand had become a little tired; 20 years since the last revamp, it needed a bit of a facelift.

“And while our renowned personal service and local expertise remains, we’re also looking to the future. Gone are the days of an estate agency on every corner; we’re concentrating on our two super branches in Middlesbrough and Billingham, where we have staff with 200 years of combined service all sharing ideas and best practice.”

The business employs more than 20 staff across its Middlesbrough and Billingham branches.

Clarke added: “We have been selling houses across Teesside for more than 40 years, and we know what works. We’re known for our honest and reliable service, and none of this is going to change.

“However, we’re definitely looking to the future too, and will continue to build on our innovative digital services such as virtual walkthroughs and online appointments which we’ve always offered, even before covid-19.

“We’re so proud of the Clarke Munro team, many of whom have spent their whole careers here, and we’re excited to be taking them on this journey with us – we couldn’t do it without their support.”