IDENTICAL twin brothers who started up business in Stourport have returned to snap up basin-side houses with their global property firm.

The 18 Grade II listed buildings on Mart Lane, were bought by Tim and Andy Hopkins. They started their car accident repair business in the town 25 years ago. It now employs 800 staff across Australia and the UK.

The pair also own Gemini Properties, which took on the houses at the basins, formerly owned by the British Waterways Board.

Some of the homes are vacant and some are tenanted. The brothers already own the refurbished former headquarters of Adam Carpets Ltd, Adam House in Birmingham Road, Kidderminster.

Gemini’s managing director, Tim Hopkins said: “The UK still holds good yielding opportunities, and we are delighted to be investing, especially as this is back into the local area.

“The 18 houses need to be preserved to maintain their originality and quaint style, which we intend to do. Nick Jethwa [director of Gemini Properties] has worked hard to complete the deal and we will refurbish to a high standard, whilst protecting the heritage of the area.”

Mr Jethwa added: “We are very pleased with this local purchase. The properties are central to Stourport’s historic basin and will be an important part of the on-going restoration of this area.”

George Pickard, associate at Knight Frank property consultancy’s Worcester branch said: “We are delighted that this sale has completed. A sympathetic and compassionate property firm has acquired this portfolio, ensuring that the existing tenants are treated well and all the buildings are restored and repaired, further enhancing the town centre and its on-going re-generation.

“The properties have generated much interest from buyers both locally and nationally, so it is quite fitting that it is being sold to someone in the region.”