Two Yorkshire IT companies have joined forces following the completion of a merger between Boston Spa-based Deans Computer Services (DCS) and Harrogate-based Leckhampton Computers.

The deal adds Leckhampton’s expertise in bespoke business software development to a wide range of services provided by DCS, including cyber security, accounting and ERP systems, data centre colocation, systems consultancy and integration, equipment maintenance, network and business software installation, training, bespoke programming, e-mail/e-commerce solutions and business forms. After an initial period operating as DCS Incorporating Leckhampton, the new company’s name will shorten to DCS plc.

The two organisations already had a close working relationship through collaboration on a number of past projects. Retiring Leckhampton founder and managing director, Peter Lichtarowicz, also co-founded DCS with its current chairman, Peter Rogerson, in 1982. Two other Leckhampton directors, Richard Foulds and Steve Robson, have joined the DCS board and will remain based at the Harrogate premises alongside seven developers. The newly merged company now has 48 staff in total, including 20 systems engineers.

Patrick Clayton, managing director of DCS and the merged company, stated:

“Having worked alongside various members of the Leckhampton team for the last 20 years it’s great to finally cement that relationship into something more solid. It’s a superb opportunity for both companies to develop new business, giving us both a much broader scope of offerings and solutions for our clients.

The newly expanded DCS development team will comprise 11 developers which, as well as providing third party add-ons to accounting systems such as Pegasus Opera, Exchequer and Intact iQ, will now be able to provide consultancy and advice across multiple platforms and operating systems.Leckhampton have expertise in providing mobile and tablet applications for business, document management solutions and integrating internet services with existing systems.”

“It was an obvious fit for the two companies with each one complementing the other. The skills and resources of the new business will open new markets and opportunities and we are very much looking forward to this exciting new venture.”