A new £10 million accountancy firm has been created following the merger between Blackpool based firm, Moore and Smalley, and Lonsdale & Partners.

Moore and Smalley, which has offices in Preston, Blackpool and Castle Donington, has joined forces with Lancaster, Kendal and Kirkby Lonsdale-based, Lonsdale & Partners.

The new business, which will trade as Moore and Smalley, will be one of the region's largest independent firms of accountants and business advisors with a fee income of £10 million, 19 partners and 200 staff. It also breaks into the top 50 bracket of the UK's largest accountancy firms.

David Ingram, managing partner at Moore and Smalley, said: "North Lancashire and South Cumbria have traditionally been strong markets for Moore and Smalley and we wanted to find a strategic partner which will allow the Moore and Smalley brand to grow. The culture of both businesses, and client demographics, are very similar making it an ideal fit.

"Moore and Smalley is a well established brand in Lancashire and we are exploring opportunities to take our service offering to other locations. The deal is great news for clients, staff and intermediaries of both firms."

Joyce Tombs, new partner at Moore and Smalley and former managing director of Lonsdale & Partners, said: "The combined heritage, resources and culture will create a powerful accountancy and advisory operation. Members from both parties should be proud of being part of this new business and we all look forward to enhancing the fortunes of our clients.

"The new business will be geared to advising both small and large enterprises, enabling us to cater for the whole market."

Moore and Smalley was established in 1892. Lonsdale & Partners started business in 1986 and its predecessor firms date back to the 1930s.