THE long established Faversham solicitors firm Ross and Co has gone bust and will close tomorrow.

It had encountered increasing financial difficulties that first manifested itself in May. The firm had hoped to trade its way out of its problems partly through help from an insolvency service.

But last week the situation became untenable and the decision was taken to close its office in Preston Street. Of its 12 members of staff, just three have found new positions.

Partner Catherine Wenborn said there was no other option.

"We are insolvent. It's an extremely difficult situation. There's been no intervention by the Law Society of any kind," she said.

She said it was a sad situation that the firm would have to close, but this was the harsh reality.

Miss Wenborn, who is a partner with Stuart Ross, who has now retired, said to ensure that clients were best served, their files were being sent to other solicitors.

Deeds and wills that were deposited in their strong room would be sent to the solicitors Tassell and Son, of West Street.