TWO long-established legal firms in St Albans are to merge. From September 1, solicitors Turner & Debenhams will get together with Ottaways to form Debenhams Ottaway. Both firms have been associated with St Albans for many years. Turner & Debenhams have

TWO long-established legal firms in St Albans are to merge. From September 1, solicitors Turner & Debenhams will get together with Ottaways to form Debenhams Ottaway.

Both firms have been associated with St Albans for many years. Turner & Debenhams have been in St Albans since 1850 and currently have their head office based here. They have additional offices in London, Radlett, Elstree and Borehamwood.

Ottaways have been practising since 1905 and currently have two offices in St Albans.

Following the merger, Ottaways will move into Tuner & Debenhams head office at Ivy House, 107 St Peters Street.

The merged firm will have 120 employees and 17 partners and will have a projected turnover of £8 million.

Godfrey Mather, chief executive of Tuner & Debenhams, said: "Culturally the two firms are an excellent match with a similar client base. All partners have endorsed the move and are very excited by the opportunity that the merger presents.