A PAIR of Hampshire-based accountants will merge after providing financial services for more than 330 years.

Chantrey Vellacott DFK LLP will merge with Moore Stephens LLP under the latter's name and brand, and the combination will become members of the Moore Stephens International network, which has a turnover of £2.7 billion across 103 countries.

The focus of the firm will be to provide services to owner-managed and global businesses across a broad range of sectors including domestic and international private clients.

Simon Gallagher, managing partner of Moore Stephens, said: "The merger provides a platform for continued, sustainable growth.

"There are real synergies, not just in terms of the services and sectors but a coming together of similar philosophies and values to form a strong combined firm.

"The partners and staff are central to our strategy going forward. The merger provides genuine career and development opportunities through innovation, growth and financial success.

"It's going to be a really exciting time for our people, and I'm sure that this will translate into the service we provide to clients."

The merger was completed on May 1 and the partnership will now trade as Moore Stephens LLP, with the London offices consolidating in the coming months.

Mr Gallagher will lead the amalgamated firm and Richard Moore will remain as a senior partner.

Meanwhile Chantrey Vellacott's managing partner Mike Tovey will join the company's partnership executive committee.

Mr Tovey said: "This provides an important strategic development for both firms.

"The combined firm will provide our clients with a broader range of expertise, along with an increased depth of sector knowledge and experience.

"Clients will also benefit from access to much wider UK and global capabilities through the Moore Stephens UK and international network."

Mr Moore said: "The merger is a fantastic opportunity, not just for the two firms but the Moore Stephens International network, which will be stronger as a result."