Hawkpoint, the corporate finance boutique, is advising Holmes Place on the £177m (€282m) indicative takeover offer made by Bridgepoint, the UK private equity firm.

Sources close to Holmes Place, the listed UK health clubs operator, said the independent directors would be considering Bridgepoint's offer. The offer is only indicative, rather than formal, which gives Bridgepoint greater flexibility to modify its terms or withdraw altogether.