Wards merge with Tanner Vowles & Cheshire - 
3 May 2005

Two local law firms, Wards Solicitors and Tanner Vowles and Cheshire, merged on 3 May 2005. Robert Murray, one of Tanner Vowles and Cheshire’s current partners, says: ”We are delighted to be joining forces with Wards, who have a strong name in North Somerset and Bristol. The merger will give our clients access to an extended range of services, including litigation and commercial law, whilst helping us continue to provide local people with a friendly and top quality legal service.”

John Brentnall, Wards’ Senior Partner adds: “We have two well-established offices in Weston-super-Mare, and others in Worle, Portishead and Nailsea. We have always felt that Clevedon offered opportunities and we are pleased to have this chance to expand our network. Existing clients will gain from the continuity of staff, whilst both existing and new clients will also benefit from increased investment in private and business law services and infrastructure over the coming months.”

Tanner Vowles and Cheshire was founded in Bristol just over 100 years ago and has been a presence in Clevedon since the 1930's. Partner Peter Preece joined the firm in 1971 and Partner Robert Murray in 2000. 

Peter and Robert will join Wards as consultants, although Peter is now retiring from active legal work. All of the remaining legal and support staff will join the new firm, including two Legal Executives; residential conveyancer, Susan Mullan, and Wills and Trusts expert, Sarah Woodward. They will be joined by Wards’ litigation solicitor, Emma Kerry (who transfers from the firm’s central Bristol office). Wards are also hoping to recruit a family law solicitor for the Clevedon office.

The new firm will be known locally as ‘Wards Solicitors with Tanner Vowles and Cheshire’ and is retaining the existing offices at 1-3 Alexandra Road, Clevedon BS21 7QF.