Sir Tom Hunter has splashed out more from his £50m war chest of cash to buy north east based Peter Barratt’s Garden Centres.
Following the acquisition of Sanders GardenWorld last month, Sir Tom's Wyevale Garden Centres group has added the three centre business to its rapidly growing portfolio.

Peter Barratt's Garden Centres was established in 1982 and has outlets in Gosforth (Newcastle), Stockton and Beverley.

Wyevale took over the running of the company today as well as its 400 employees.

The move is the latest twist in Sir Tom's battle with Tesco, which beat the Scottish entrepreneur in his attempt to buy the Dobbies Garden World chain.

Sir Tom's West Coast Capital Group (WCCG) is looking at further acquisitions as it aims to cement its position as the market leader in the garden retail industry.

Barry Stevenson, chief executive officer of Wyevale Garden Centres, said: "We are delighted to add a business of Peter Barratt's quality to the Wyevale portfolio.

"It is already a very successful business enjoying market leadership in the north east and fits perfectly into our existing geographical portfolio."