Baker Tilly, the UK accountancy and business advisory firm, has bolstered its regional presence in the northeast of England with the acquisition of The Charlton Williamson Partnership for an undisclosed sum.

Charlton Williamson's staff will move to Baker Tilly's offices in central Newcastle over the coming weeks, taking headcount to seven partners plus 60 professional and support staff.

David Charlton - who set up the business in 1992 - and Stuart McKinnon will stay on as partners of the new venture.

Kevin O'Connor, Baker Tilly's northern regional managing partner, said in a statement that the merger will enhance the company’s tax expertise.

In other recent developments, Baker Tilly bolstered its capabilities in the Channel Islands in July with the establishment of an audit and assurance practice in Guernsey.