A YORK firm of solicitors is calling on local businesses to share their views on Brexit as the UK prepares to leave the EU.

Hetherton’s anonymous online poll, which is available on its website www.hethertons.co.uk and twitter account https://twitter.com/HethertonsLegal, aims to find out more about how local businesses view the UK’s departure from the Union next March 2019.

It also seeks to find out whether they are prepared for the changes ahead, said a spokesman.

He said the poll was put together by the practice’s expert lawyers, and the firm hoped to reveal the final results at a free seminar it would be holding at its offices in Opus Avenue, York Business Park, on October 2 - almost six months to the date before the UK departs from the EU.

“The seminar will also give businesses a chance to discuss their plans and concerns for Brexit with Hethertons’ team of experienced solicitors over a light breakfast,” he said.

Senior associate David Scott said: “The national news is constantly bombarded with stories about the ongoing negotiations, but we want to know how Brexit is likely to affect businesses in Yorkshire.

“This quick and simple survey aims to not only reveal whether businesses are worried or optimistic, but also how ready they are for the outcomes of the country’s departure.”

He said he recognised that Brexit was a divisive issue, but he believed it was important for businesses to share their views on such a landmark decision.

“We hope to give businesses a greater appreciation for the views of their peers and help them to plan ahead so that they can deal with all of the issues and opportunities that may arise from Brexit,” he added.

The spokesman said anyone with queries about the survey, or who would like to join Hethertons for its upcoming seminar, should visit https://www.hethertons.co.uk/events.

He added that Hethertons had been advising individuals and businesses in York and Boroughbridge for more than 70 years, offering a wide range of legal services for individuals, families and businesses.

“Its experienced lawyers handle matters relating to employment law, business transactions, residential and commercial conveyancing, family law, wills and probate and dispute resolution.”