From 1 April, Ashtons will continue to operate through its Ringwood and Weymouth offices, with all of its existing team of seven, as part of Quantuma. They include David Meany, who was one of the founder partners of the original practice in October 2010.

Quantuma managing partner Carl Jackson said: ‘We continue to grow organically, but when the opportunity occurs to acquire a quality practice such as Ashtons, then it makes sense to talk.

‘We have known David and his staff for many years, and they are an experienced team who will complement our existing staff in Southampton.’

Meany said: ‘For our clients it is very much business as usual, but the acquisition provides us with access to Quantuma’s national network and wider business advisory and forensic services.’

Founded in 2013 by Carl Jackson, Quantuma has grown to a £10m practice with ten offices in London, Southampton, Marlow, Watford, Brighton, Bristol, Manchester, Birmingham, Ringwood and Weymouth, employing 120 staff.

Report by Pat Sweet