The latest acquisition is part of the firm’s ambitious growth plan to become the ‘go to’ accountancy firm for family and owner-managed businesses across the north of England.

The merger will see all the staff at Gibbons Accountants join Armstrong Watson, marking a significant milestone in the history of the firm, which dates back to its founding in Carlisle in 1867 by James Watson.

The five partners, Russell Thwaites, Philip Holdsworth, Tony Hindmoor, Mark Stanger and Steven Kirkbride have all joined Armstrong Watson along with 52 colleagues and will continue to provide a full range of services to their existing clients.