BASINGSTOKE is continuing to build its reputation as a regional centre for delivering all aspects of professional services.

In one of the latest deals, Mark Lane, local director at Tenon accountants and business advisers - which sponsors Gazette Business - proved that medium-sized transactions do not need to be handled in London.

He pulled together legal and banking advice from within Basingstoke to work for an Oxford-based client.

Ken Knowland approached Mr Lane to help him acquire Savona Provisions, a leading food wholesaler whose customers include many of the Oxford University colleges, and hotels and restaurants across London and the South.

Jonathan Pender and Tracy Diamond, from Phillips solicitors in Basingstoke, undertook the legal work, and Craig Ward, manager of the Royal Bank of Scotland's commercial banking arm in the town, set up the £1million of funding needed for the acquisition.

Mr Ward said: "The Royal Bank of Scotland is committed to doing deals in Basingstoke. Ken's acquisition of Savona is further evidence that Basingstoke has all the necessary banking and professional skills to help customers achieve their goals quickly and efficiently."

Mr Lane said: "We are delighted to have helped Ken to acquire Savona and have enjoyed working with him and our fellow professionals in Basingstoke."

It all led to having one very satisfied new business owner. Mr Knowland said: "The whole process was quicker, cleaner and far less time was wasted than previous similar transactions I have been involved with."