Law firm Gordons has defied the downturn which has hit the legal sector and unveiled strong financial results for the year ended April 2010.

The Bradford and Leeds firm’s managing partner Paul Ayre said the achievement put Gordons in a strong position to challenge Yorkshire’s ‘big six’ legal practices.

This summer the firm’s 120 Bradford-based partners and staff moved into refurbished offices in Piccadilly, in a mover which involved a ‘significant’ investment and which Gordons said demonstrated its commitment to the city where it has operated since 1844. The practice expanded into Leeds ten years ago.

Turnover rose by 1.5 per cent to £22m and average profit per equity partner over the period was £702,000, up from £478,000 the previous year.

Mr Ayre, said: “We are very pleased to have increased the firm’s revenue in light of the past year’s challenging market conditions.

“It speaks volumes about the resilience of Gordons and its potential.

“One of the main reasons for our continued growth is having a clear proposition that combines quality and value with a commitment to listening closely to what is important to clients and, critically, what is not.

“This approach has helped us win and retain work despite the tough economic climate.

“We believe it will continue to serve us well as we consolidate our position as the viable alternative to the Big Six law firms operating in Yorkshire.”

In the past financial year Gordons has further developed its corporate department with the appointment of former DLA Piper partner Andrew Morris and helped Bradford-based car retailer JCT600 expand its operations through acquisition.

It also signed an exclusive three year contract for the provision of certain property-related legal services with Molson Coors Brewing Company (UK).

Gordons promoted four of its partners to junior equity partner and employed all seven of the newly qualified solicitors following completion of their training contracts with the firm this year.

The firm consolidated its two Bradford offices into one following refurbishment of the former David Yablon Solicitors offices in Forward House, Piccadilly.

Staff in Bradford moved 100 yards up the street to the new offices of the practice which it acquired three years ago.

Bradford-based commercial property partner Paul Young said the new base provided improved accommodation which was ideal for enabling greater interaction amongst teams.

Gordons has set out a three year strategy to maintain its momentum and challenge growth targets.

Paul Ayre said: “We know that it will take a lot of hard work to accomplish the objectives we have set, but we are confident that we have the right offer for this market and the best people to deliver them.”

Gordons employs 250 people, 180 of which are fee earners and clients include Bradford-based Morrisons .