Upstart law firm Gilson Gray is building on its rapid growth in the past two years by raiding established rival Warners for a residential property team.

Gilson Gray, which launched as a full service law firm in 2014 opening simultaneously in Edinburgh and Glasgow, has appointed Deborah McCathie as a partner and head of residential conveyancing.

Ms McCathie, who has spent nine years at Edinburgh-based Warners, will be based primarily in the capital and tasked with further expanding the firm’s Scottish operation.

The firm said a number of Ms McCathie’s former Warners team were also joining the firm, naming Emma Mackenzie and Cheryl Anderson, while “other senior team members, to be appointed across the firm’s offices in Edinburgh and Glasgow, are expected to be announced shortly”.

Glen Gilson, managing partner, said: “Many firms have reduced their exposure to this field of practice in recent years, yet we believe there is a substantial opportunity in this area of work.”