An independent accounting firm has celebrated its 125th anniversary, by teaming up with a national firm that sees growth potential in the county.

Larkings, with offices in Canterbury and Maidstone, has merged with MHA MacIntyre Hudson, which has 13 offices nationwide, including one in Rochester.

Larkings, which was founded in Norwich in 1880. provides audit, accounting, personal and business tax advice to clients in Kent and the south east. The merger will see six partners and 40 staff operating under the name of MHA MacIntyre Hudson from their current office locations. The firm’s clients are involved in several sectors, including not for profit, legal, healthcare, agriculture and construction.

Michael Moore, partner at Larkings, said: “We are excited about becoming part of MHA MacIntyre Hudson and providing a broader range of service and sector expertise to our clients such as outsourcing, Vat and corporate finance. Both firms have a similar outlook and are a good cultural fit and we’re confident that we’ll continue to deliver our services to a high level. The merger coincides with Larkings’ 125 year anniversary so it is a fantastic way to celebrate and move the firm forward.”

He added: "We have been in talks with MHA MacIntyre Hudson for the last two years and it's purely coincidence that the merger fell on our 125 anniversary. However, we do see it as a significant date as we are now looking forward to the future and the next 125 years as MHA MacIntyre Hudson."

Rakesh Shaunak, chairman of MHA MacIntyre Hudson, added: “Kent is an exciting market place and we have long seen it as a growth area. Our Rochester office has provided us with a small presence in the region for several years. However with Larkings, we now have the opportunity to work much more closely with businesses across the county and take advantage of the opportunities on offer.”