Two solicitors are to join forces to become one firm.

Lenham-based Thorneloe & Co is to merge into Ashford's Hallett & Co, with the deal coming into force on May 1.

It comes after Thorneloe's founder, Michael Thorneloe, was forced to take on a lesser role in the running of the firm.

He opened the office 30 years ago, with daughter Harriet Thorneloe joining in 2007. It's office in The Square will remain open following the merger.

Harriet Thorneloe explained: "As many are aware, Michael has recently had a much reduced role in the business and we have taken on another solicitor, Benedict Hughes

"Partly in light of these changes but also due to the ever-increasing complexities of running a small firm, we are merging with Hallett & Co.

"This will result in very few changes for our clients. The office will outwardly remain the same and our staff will not change.

"We will however be able to offer litigation and family law services to clients which we had not previously provided.

"We hope and intend to continue to provide a friendly and efficient legal service to Lenham and its surroundings well into the future."

Mark Dewey of Hallett & Co said: “Thorneloe & Co share our client oriented approach to delivering tailored, high quality legal advice”.

Combining more than 200 years of legal expertise, the firm is now made up of 12 partners, with 65 staff.