Top 40 chartered accountancy firm Littlejohn is joining the PKF International network as a UK member, replacing PKF which has recently completed its merger with mid-tier rival BDO.

Littlejohn will continue as an independently owned firm within the PKF International network when it joins on 1 July 2013 and will adopt the name PKF Littlejohn later this year. It was previously a member of the PrimeGlobal international association.

Paul Hopper, Littlejohn's managing partner, said: 'Meeting the needs of our clients is at the heart of this decision. They are increasingly trading and investing overseas, we are bringing more overseas companies to the UK markets and we are acting for international donor agencies. Joining PKF International, with its strong network of member firms, will enable us to provide better support for them around the world.'

Based in Canary Wharf with nearly 200 staff including 32 partners, Littlejohn has particular expertise in capital markets, the insurance sector, audits for the European Commission, and charities and public sector bodies.

John Sim, CEO of PKF International, said: 'Littlejohn has an outstanding reputation and is particularly known for its strong technical expertise and international outlook. We have conducted a thorough due diligence process and, having been delighted with the outcome, look forward to Littlejohn providing advice to our network's numerous clients who do business in the UK.'