Countrywide firm Hamptons International has bought John Curtis, a sales and lettings agency which has been in business in Hertfordshire for over 40 years.

The firm has offices located in Harpenden and Wheathampstead and is led by directors Ric Merlo and Ken Whittaker.

Whittaker said: “Ric and I will continue to offer the same personal service and attention seven days a week, coupled now with immense backing and support from an established and respected international company able to attract more affluent London and international buyers and tenants to Harpenden and the local villages.”

Marc Goldberg, head of sales at Hamptons International, said: “We are delighted to start 2015 with such a strong acquisition.

“John Curtis is the leading sales and lettings agency in Harpenden and the surrounding area and will help to significantly strengthen our footprint in the Hertfordshire region, while bolstering our profile north of London.

“The acquisition signifies a key part of the company’s strategic plan to expand its UK network.”

Hamptons currently has 85 branches in London and the south.