National firm Weightmans and north-west firm Mace & Jones will merge on 1 May to create a £75m-revenue, 1,000-employee business, the firms announced today.

The news follows Weightmans’ recent announcement that it will acquire the full 13-partner insurance team from south-east firm Vizards Wyeth on 1 April.

After Weightmans and Mace & Jones combine, the merged firm will employ more than 770 people in the north west.

Weightmans’ managing partner Patrick Gaul said: ‘As the talks with Mace & Jones have progressed, it has become increasingly clear that our two firms are very well matched.

'We have similar cultures and values, and a shared commitment to maintaining the highest standards in our dealings with our people and clients.

‘The merged firm will be a major national player, with strength in depth across every area of its practice.

'There are considerable strategic and practical benefits for clients of both firms.

'Continuing growth will create an even more robust and sustainable firm for the future, and enable us to meet the challenges ahead in the legal services market.’

Mace & Jones managing partner Richard Corran said: ‘Our two firms have a great deal in common.

'We know each other well and share the same values. Weightmans’ national reach will also allow us the opportunity to tap into new markets in London and the Midlands as well as offering a wider range of services to existing clients.’