Blake Lapthorn Linnell and White & Bowker are to merge in a deal that will create one of the largest law firms in the south of England.

The two partnerships have approved the tie-up in principle to be effective from 1 May 2006.


The combined firm, which is expected to be called Blake Lapthorn Linnell, will have 85 partners - White & Bowker currently has 14 - and more than 300 fee-earners. Its turnover for 2006/07 will be around £40 million.


Blake Lapthorn Linnell operates from offices in Southampton, Oxford, Fareham, Portsmouth and London. White & Bowker has offices in Winchester and Chandler's Ford, near Southampton.


Jonathan Lloyd-Jones, senior partner of Blake Lapthorn Linnell, said: 'Both firms are a very good fit, both in terms of practice areas and geographical coverage.'