Region’s advisers play key role in sale of trailer maker Abel Demountable

Sheffield-based lawyers from Hill Dickinson and Castle Square Corporate Finance have provided advice in connection with the disposal of Abel Demountable Systems.

Chesterfield-based Abel, which has 30 staff and a turnover of around £2.3m, makes equipment and bodywork for trailers.

It has been bought for an undisclosed sum by Wheelbase Holdings, the holding company of Wheelbase Engineering, which is a transport services firm based in Darwen, Lancashire.

Hill Dickinson and Castle Square Corporate Finance advised Derrick and Kathleen Sharpe, who had owned all the share capital of Abel since 1991.

Mr Sharpe said that the business had built up a strong reputation over the past 50 years, adding: “The change of ownership to Wheelbase will not result in a change of management and the business will carry on as nor-mal.”

Neil Thompson, a partner at Hill Dickinson, said it showed there were still “quality deals” being done.

He added: “I have acted for Derrick Sharpe for nearly 30 years, including his acquisition of Abel 20 years ago.”

Kevan Shaw from Castle Square Corporate Finance, said the deal had secured a successful exit for Mr Sharpe.

He added: “It also ensures the future success of the company in the hands of Wheelbase, for whom the purchase is an excellent strategic fit.”

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