Leeds and Bradford firm Gordons merged with Nelson & Co in Leeds this week to create a 40-partner practice which rivals the local presence of national firms in Yorkshire.

The merged firm, which will operate under the Gordons name, will have a turnover of more than 15 million and a staff of 300.

Gordons partner Paul Ayre will be managing partner of the combined firm, while Nelson & Co's former managing partner, Andrew Linden, will chair the executive board.

Gordons senior partner John Hall will retain his present role.

Mr Ayre said: 'For some time we have felt there is a gap in the regional market for a strong, well-resourced firm with an emphasis on personal service.

We believe this merger will put us in an excellent position to capitalise on this opportunity.'