NEWCASTLE-based law firm Crutes is no more, after becoming part of rapidly-expanding law chain DWF.

The merger, which has been in negotiation for a number of months, became official on January 1 and the Crutes name disappeared after more than 100 years.

DWF has more than 1,500 staff in Newcastle, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester and Preston, and works internationally via relationships with law firms around the globe.

It incorporated Crutes as part of its plans to become a bigger players in the North East legal services market and it now plans to further invest in its Newcastle office.

Crutes, which had 95 staff, including 16 partners, had revenues of around £5m.

DWF managing partner, Andrew Leaitherland, said: “The completion of the merger with Crutes is a significant milestone for DWF.

“Crutes was the perfect match for DWF, as its business services and sector strengths complement ours.

“Our shared legal expertise, sector knowledge and resources will enable us to provide an enhanced offering to our clients in the North East and beyond.

“We see the North East as a key area for expansion over the next few years and we’re committed to growth and investment in the area.

“The region is a dynamic marketplace with plenty of opportunities, and the next 12 months look very exciting for the firm.”

DWF has already made a number of key appointments to its Newcastle office including intellectual property lawyer Ed Meikle, leading corporate partner John Flynn, as an executive partner; and banking and finance expert Deborah Kirtley as a partner.