01/10/2026
Jane Penman
We are delighted to announce that Russell & Russell Solicitors has acquired the respected firm Wrigley Claydon, effective 30th September 2026.
The acquisition strengthens Russell & Russell’s existing presence in the North West and represents an expansion into Yorkshire, with the addition of branches in Oldham and Todmorden taking the number of Russell & Russell’s offices across Chester, Greater Manchester and Yorkshire to ten.
Twenty one Wrigley Claydon staff members will join the Russell & Russell family, increasing the overall headcount to around 215, including partners.
The acquisition builds on Russell & Russell and Wrigley Claydon’s existing expertise, and the firm will continue to provide high-quality legal advice and services to individuals, businesses and families across a wide range of legal sectors.
Areas of expertise include conveyancing, company and commercial litigation, commercial property, criminal defence, debt collection, dispute resolution, employment, family law, personal injury, and wills and probate.
The firm will be led by managing partner Jane Penman, supported by a team of 10 equity partners.
“Russell & Russell and Wrigley Claydon are long-established, highly regarded law practices with a reputation for delivering high-quality legal services,” said Jane Penman.
“Both firms have striking similarities in traditions and values, and the two firms are an excellent cultural fit.
“The acquisition will enable us to accelerate growth whilst continuing to deliver the highest standards of service to our clients and expand career opportunities for our people,” she said.
Wrigley Claydon partners John Porter and Vijay Srivastava will become consultants, and Rachel Damianou, Emma Pozkalo and Rhona Royle will become salaried partners.
“Russell & Russell is the natural home for the Wrigley Claydon business and its people to facilitate succession,” said John Porter.
“We are all very excited about this next stage in Wrigley Claydon’s evolution and would like to thank our clients, team and wider network for all their well wishes and continued trust and support.”
Together, Russell & Russell and Wrigley Claydon have more than 365 years of experience in the legal field.
Russell & Russell’s roots can be traced back to 1887 when William Russell set up his legal practice in Bolton.
Wrigley Claydon was established in 1795 in Oldham, where the firm has had a continuous presence ever since and celebrates its 231-year anniversary this year.
Both firms have strong community ties, a diverse client base, and a keen focus on their people.
Armstrong Watson LLP arranged the transaction for Wrigley Claydon. Russell & Russell were advised by Mark Briegal of Bennett Briegal LLP, and received financial advice from Tom Blandford of SurSum Advisory Ltd. Financial terms were not disclosed.
For more information, visit www.russellrussell.co.uk or call 0800 103 2600.
Please note that this article is meant as general guidance and not intended as legal or professional advice. Updates to the law may have changed since this article was published.