Hill Dickinson is set to open an office in Singapore, gifting the northwest heavyweight its first presence in Asia.

The office, which is due to open in March, will be headed by Hill Dickinson partner and Master Mariner Tony Goldsmith – who will relocate to the region. Goldsmith will be joined by London associate Andrew Lee, with two further fee earners set to be recruited from the local market.

The office will focus on international marine work with a plan to develop other practice areas, such as corporate and commercial, in the future.

The firm said the decision to establish a presence in Singapore was driven by client demand, as well as the increased proximity to the Korea, Japan and China markets.

Hill Dickinson senior partner Tony Wilson commented: "It is a bold step to open a new office in the current economic market and this demonstrates our commitment to invest in the firm's future. We have based the model for the business on our successful operation in Piraeus, and having a team on the ground will enable us to be on hand to attend casualties and urgent situations immediately. Our presence in Singapore further reinforces the firm's international connections and supports the City's drive for increased global connectivity and inward investment internationally."

He added: "We have many clients throughout Asia and there is a strong opportunity to build on business in this region. Having a full-service presence from Singapore puts us in a good, central location from which we can service much of Asia, and growth in this area is key to our business plans for 2009 and beyond."

The firm also has offices in Liverpool, Chester, Manchester, London and Piraeus.

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