Regional law firm Thring Townsend Lee and Pembertons has announced that it has merged with the Wiltshire-based niche law firm, Wood Awdry & Ford. The merger is a further strategic step by Thring Townsend Lee and Pembertons to strengthen its private client services.

Wood Awdry & Ford has a strong reputation throughout Wiltshire and the South West for its private client expertise. Thomas Sheppard, managing partner at Thring Townsend Lee and Pembertons, said: “The strategic move to bring Wood Awdry & Ford into Thring Townsend Lee & Pembertons helps consolidate our balanced commercial agriculture and private client services, which are second to none in Southern England. With the government’s plans to liberalise the legal profession, it is important to build strength in depth across all our chosen specialist business areas.”

The merger will take the annual turnover of Thring Townsend Lee and Pembertons to well over £20m.

“It is not just a question of size,” said Thomas. “It is important to find and develop talented people who have specialist skills – through this we become stronger,” said Mr Sheppard.

Hugo Richardson, partner in private property will continue in this role at Thring Townsend Lee& Pembertons and to manage the Cirencester office. William Wyldbore-Smith, partner and head of private client at Wood Awdry & Ford, will also continue with his present roles and responsibilities.

Mr Wyldbore-Smith said: “At Wood Awdry & Ford, we had taken the view some time ago that we needed to find the right partner who would strengthen the bespoke services we offer to our clients. Our existing clients will now also have access to a broader range of services, particularly in the agricultural and commercial areas. The merger will also bring increased management resources and wider opportunities for Wood Awdry & Ford solicitors and staff.”

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