A NEW commercial property company has launched in south Dorset.

Jan Merriott and Matthew Pye have set up the firm, called Bartle Pye.

It is named after Mr Pye’s grandfather, a Weymouth Alderman.

Mr Merriott is a local chartered surveyor with 20 years experience.

Mr Pye has worked in property and business acquisitions for a national company as well as having several businesses.

They say that they aim to provide commercial property advice and services for the local business community, investors and developers.

“We can offer a dedicated and quality commercial agency service to the local area founded on strong ethical values without people having to go to Bournemouth of Yeovil.”

The company launched in September. The duo said that the business has grown more quickly than expected and that they are ahead of business plan forecasts.

Mr Merriott worked for businessman Theo Paphitis, from the Dragons’ Den, early in his career.

He also worked in corporate real estate during the IT boom in Wellington, New Zealand.

Mr Pye used to own Express Glass before selling out to Romans Glass some years ago.