Full service Scottish legal firm Thorntons has appointed Neil Darling as an Associate in the Land and Rural Business team at its Edinburgh office.

Neil Darling, from Galashiels, has vast experience in the sector with specialisms in forestry, development in the countryside, renewables, minerals and agricultural matters.

Throughout his career Neil has been Partner at two firms namely DWF and Wright Johnston & Mackenzie. He is also dual qualified in Scots and English law.

Neil said: “I’m delighted to join Thorntons’ Edinburgh operation and bring my 20 plus years of experience to clients here.”

At Thorntons Neil will advise clients on the development of the countryside and diversification as well as working with land owning clients on the sale, purchase and leasing of landed estates, farms and woodlands throughout Scotland. He can also advise clients on the challenges affecting the agricultural sector and the potential opportunities which can be gained within it.

Kenneth Mackay, Land and Rural Business Partner at Thorntons, said: “It’s great to add Neil to our team in Edinburgh. He has a wealth of knowledge in land and rural business law which will be of great benefit to our clients and further boost the specialist team we have, based in the capital.”