Oil and gas explorer Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) has increased its relevant interest in Impress Energy Ltd (ASX: ITC) to above 60 percent, as a result of continued strong on-market acceptances by Impress shareholders.

Earlier this month, Beach announced a recommended and unconditional on-market cash offer for all of the issued and outstanding shares of Impress that it did not own, for 8.5 cents per share.

On December 14, Beach has secured majority control of Impress by lifting its relevant interest in Impress to above 50 per cent.

Beach encourages the remaining Impress shareholders to accept the offer.

According to the company, the offer represents a significant premium to the price that Impress was trading at prior to Beach initially expressing interest in Impress on November 22, 2010 and is unanimously recommended by Impress directors.

Beach said, "All Impress directors have accepted Beach's offer in respect of all their shareholdings.

"It is highly unlikely an alternative bid will emerge as Beach has majority control.

"The future capital requirements of Impress could see remaining shareholders be diluted.

"The trading volume of Impress shares may fall if Beach's offer closes without Beach having acquired all the Impress shares."

The offer to Impress shareholders will close on January 24 next year, unless extended or withdrawn.