MYDDLETON & Major, the independent estate agency which specialises in retail properties in Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire, is celebrating its centenary this year.

The firm which has its retail office in Carlton Crescent, Southampton, is recognised as one of the leading specialist retail property teams in central southern England. The firm was founded in 1903 at Salisbury and the Southampton retail branch of Myddelton & Major was opened in 1978.

The firm still has offices in Salisbury, where it provides residential and commercial property services. The Southampton team covers all aspects of the retail market - acting for multiple, regional and local tenants, private and institutional landlords, property companies and developers.

Last week partners and staff from across the south converged on the Salisbury offices to be presented with a crystal cut glass bowl by the leading city industrialist and High Sheriff of Wiltshire Sir Christopher Benson.

Southampton partner Ian Beatson said: "This is an important year for Myddelton & Major in Southampton. We are very proud of our centenary. The firm was established by men of commitment and vision. Our partnership ethos has remained unchanged. We pride ourselves on delivering a personal, efficient and effective service."