THE takeover of an historic Blackburn solicitors firm is part of a £100million expansion programme.

Manchester-based AWH Solicitors have now completed the formal acquisition of Richmond Terrace practice Roebucks.

Staff from their Blackburn, Clitheroe and Leyland offices now come under the AWH umbrella.

And the new owners, who recorded a turnover of £10million plus last year, intend to keep the 110-year-old Roebucks name alive and will be looking to recruit from juniors to director level in future.

Managing director Abdul Hussain said: “This latest acquisition forms part of our intention to complete £100million worth of quality acquisitions in the next two years that complement and enhance our existing services and team.”

Mr Hussain confirmed that AWH, which now employs more than 150, was also still on the lookout for further takeover targets.

Before now the city outfit has specialised in personal injury cases but this represents their first expansion into handling private law clients.