A BRADFORD-based law firm is eyeing further growth following a merger with a historic West Yorkshire practice

Schofield Sweeney says the merger with Armitage Sykes Solicitors in Huddersfield will expand it's footprint in West Yorkshire and create new opportunities for expansion.

The merger for an undisclosed sum has created a legal firm of 150 people, offices in , Bradford, Leeds and Huddersfield and combined revenues of more than £10 million.

Armitage Sykes traces its roots back to 1750 and has grown to become a leading West Yorkshire practice providing a range of legal services for businesses, including litigation, business recovery and insolvency, commercial property, intellectual property and employment law.

Services for personal clients include conveyancing, wills and probate , employment rights and employment rights.

Chris Schofield, Schofield Sweeney chairman, said: “Both firms bring a depth of talent that together will consolidate our position in the region and create a strong platform for growth.

“The firms have complementary skill sets and client bases. It is a great fit for both firms, and under the Schofield Sweeney banner, we can build on strong client bases to expand in the region.”

Shareholding directors at Armitage Sykes will become Schofield Sweeney partners and its managing director, Rob Kelly, will join Schofield Sweeney’s board.

The merger will enable Armitage Sykes to boost its commercial legal expertise for clients in the Huddersfield area, while Schofield Sweeney will add significantly to its capabilities in private client practice and residential property.

Rob Kelly, managing director of Armitage Sykes said: “This merger will create the most significant business law firm in Huddersfield and one of the largest private client teams in Yorkshire and brings a depth of commercial expertise to Huddersfield that sets us apart. It will bring huge benefit to the town and local area.”

Armitage Sykes will continue to trade under its own name but plans to rebrand later in 2016. The company plans to create new jobs through growth.

In 2014 Schofield Sweeney expanded its services by acquiring the dental legal practice of Leeds-based Cohen Cramer. It enabled the firm to offer a range of legal services for dentists, dental agents, accountants and financial advisers.

Corporate lawyer David McEwan joined the new practice within Schofield Sweeney's 12-strong corporate and commercial team, based in the Bradford office.advising on issues including the sale and purchase of dental practices, incorporations, partnerships and expense sharing agreements and a range of regulatory matters .