In Brief: The Piece Hall Trust attracts corporate members; Law firm advises on acquisition of Italian electric motor and generator manufacturer

Two Halifax businesses, Walker Singleton Chartered Surveyors and Wilby Insurance Brokers, have become corporate members of The Piece Hall Trust, each lending their support to the charitable organisation with a three year membership.

Both companies have worked with The Piece Hall over the past few years, Walker Singleton were part of the consultancy team that secured Heritage Lottery Funding to enable the building’s transformation. Wilby have provided insurance services to the Trust since its re-opening in August 2017.

Chief executive of The Piece Hall Trust Nicky Chance-Thompson said: “Our corporate members are part of the growing Piece Hall Trust family. Through their generous support we are able to fulfil our role as a charitable organisation and help to keep this glorious and iconic building free to access for generations.  I feel so fortunate to be able to welcome Walker Singleton and Wilby, each of which have a proud history in Halifax, and urge other forward-thinking businesses to join us on this incredible journey.”

David Heap, director at Walker Singleton, said: “Walker Singleton Chartered Surveyors were established in Calderdale in 1889 and are embedded supporters and advisors to many heritage projects in Halifax and the wider Borough. The Piece Hall was built with pride and ambition at its heart; sentiment that sustains today in the town and its citizens. The transformed Piece Hall is now making a real difference to the way Calderdale is perceived and is giving a boost to Halifax Town Centre and we at Walker are pleased to offer ongoing support for the Trust moving forward.”

Corporate members benefit from invitations to exclusive Piece Hall and networking events, 25% off conferencing room hire discounts for staff and corporate entertainment at The Trading Rooms.

Managing director of Wilby, Richard Blackburn, added: “It was an easy decision for us to commit to supporting The Piece Hall Trust. A world class destination just around the corner from our office, we are regulars in the independent shops, at events and especially in the food and drink venues which are perfect for entertaining clients.  We’ve experienced first-hand the vision and delivery of a wonderful asset in our town. and all of us at Wilby are proud to be part of its continuing story.”

Wilby and Walker Singleton join existing corporate members Covea Insurance and McArthurGlen Group who have committed to a third year of supporting the Trust.

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The corporate team in the Leeds office of Gateley has advised Langley Holdings, the engineering and industrial group, on its acquisition of Marelli Motori, the Italian electric motor and generator manufacturer from The Carlyle Group.

The transaction, which included the full repayment of Marelli’s bank debt of €55 million by Langley, was completed in Milan on 23 May for an undisclosed amount.

Corporate partner at Gateley David Armitage led the deal. He was supported by solicitor Rebecca Bennett and trainee solicitor Elizabeth Russell with input from Gateley’s banking team. Assistance was also provided by Italian lawyers, R&P Legal, which was led by Mario Ferrari and supported by Antonio Faruzzi and Pierluigi Tusino.

Armitage said: “This acquisition is a great move for our long-standing client Langley Holdings and we’re really pleased to have been able to support them through this transaction. We have no doubt that it will be a great success for Langley Holdings and wish them all the very best with their future growth strategy.”