Development company The Hellens Group has made three key appointments within two of its companies.

SIMON THORPE is the new commercial director of Hellens Contracts, after holding the position of estimating manager for five years.

The division has also recruited KEITH RATTRAY, who has more than 20 years' experience in landscapes and civil contract management, as contracts manager.

Hellens' Developments division has also made RICHARD SCOTT development surveyor. He will work alongside Gavin Cordwell-Smith, development director and chief executive of the group.