A LONG-ESTABLISHED public relations agency with big name clients such as Shepherd Neame and Leeds Castle has been sold.

Edwards Harvey Associates, based in the Press Centre, Bank Street, Maidstone, was snapped up by Link ICA, an award-winning marketing communications group, for an undisclosed sum.

Edwards Harvey will keep its name but moved out of its offices on December 20 to join Link at Turkey Court in Ashford Road, Maidstone.

Joanne Rogers, director, is to lead Edwards Harvey's PR and marketing operation at the new address.

The move is designed to create a large multi-purpose agency, with public relations, advertising, marketing, brand development and new media under the same roof.

Richard Harvey founded the company with Peter Edwards, who is no longer involved, 23 years ago. He said it was the right time to sell.

"I wanted to keep take the company forward with a bright and dynamic agency and Link ICA is the fastest-growing in the south east with some great clients," he said. "They also have the skills which will take our offering beyond traditional PR disciplines.

"It was time to move, time to change and I've been looking for the right partner for Edwards Harvey to grow the business."

Mr Harvey will continue to be involved in the business. David Bosley, a fellow director and shareholder, will also stay with the firm, together with all 12 employees.

Edwards Harvey also acts for ASB Law, Kent Tourism Alliance, Whatman and BT.

Link ICA won a Kent Business Award in 2001 for its "outstanding development strategy."