YORK legal firm Corries Solicitors Ltd has announced the promotion of Howard Bonnett to director.

He joined the company in 2003 and is head of its specialist asbestos team.

Managing director Bruce Corrie said:”The board are pleased to make this appointment to reward Howard for his hard work.

“His appointment will help us in these difficult times for personal injury law firms to move the firm forward and ensure we give our clients the best service possible,” he said.

Mr Bonnett said: “I am excited to be given the opportunity to continue the great work at Corries and to help drive the firm into the future.”

l Harrogate-based Synergy Automotive, one of the UK’s leading vehicle leasing and finance credit brokers, is accelerating its growth strategy with six new appointments in the last six months.

Founded in 2006 on the principle of delivering a great leasing experience to every customer, the business now employs a 26-strong team.

Marking a 35 per cent increase in staff over the last year, Synergy Automotive is ramping up the sales team with four new sales account managers to look after its growing customer base,.

The company has also strengthened its client services with a trainee data analyst and a trainee sales support co-ordinator.