Under the terms of the deal Neville Gatoff and his three staff will move from their Whitefield offices into the Jack Ross Manchester office and the enlarged firm will keep the Jack Ross brand name.

Peter Black, senior partner of Jack Ross, says the deal makes solid business sense for both parties.

‘We have known Neville Gatoff and his firm for a number of years and following recent discussions we felt a merger between our two practices would make sense for both businesses and our clients,’ he said

‘We feel there is a natural affinity between us as we share the same belief in providing a warm, approachable professional service. Over the years we have advised our clients to grow through acquisition, and so once again we have heeded our own advice. We believe this deal will continue to enhance our brand and reputation.’

The combined fee income of the two firms is estimated at £1m. The newly merged practice will have 23 staff.

Following the merger, Gatoff will become Jack Ross business services partner.