Two of the most prominent names on property boards across Sussex have joined forces.

Brand Vaughan, part of the expanding Lomond Group, and Michael Jones & Company have merged in a transformational deal to co-create the market leading sales and letting agency across Brighton and Hove, Worthing, and along the South Coast.

The home-grown Sussex agencies will retain their own distinctive brands, branch networks, and teams of staff as they pool almost 50 years of experience.

Together, they will manage a rental portfolio of more than 4,000 properties.

Will Linley, Lomond’s Group Managing Director, said: “We are thrilled to welcome a market- leading agency of Michael Jones’ calibre to our rapidly-growing network.

“It strengthens and broadens our presence across Sussex, which is a prime location for further business growth.

“We are actively exploring acquisition opportunities in the county to expand our lettings and sales footprint across its most sought-after places to live and work.”

Brand Vaughan, whose original Cambridge Residential Lettings business launched in the late 1990s operates four established offices on the South Coast.

Michael Jones & Company, which is marking its 30th anniversary this year, has a similarly strong team operating out of six branches.

Both companies said the agreement heralded the start of an exciting new journey and was a signal of confidence in the Sussex residential property market and investing in its future.