A REGIONAL accountancy firm has completed its acquisition of Winchester company Davis Lombard.

The firm, which is also based in Southampton and Fareham, has been taken over by HJS Accountants in a bid to further spread its client base.

The office will be headed by manager Mark Davis. Two new recruits will also join the existing members of Lombard staff.

Gareth Stokes, managing director of HJS Accountants, began his accountancy career in Winchester.

“I am delighted with the acquisition, which will help HJS continue to deliver excellent service to our Winchester clientele,” he said. “We see Winchester as a prominent marketplace with a superb mix of traditional family run businesses and dynamic young start-ups.

“With our knowledge and experience, we have the expertise to help these businesses succeed. We look forward to working with our existing clients and making new contacts within the local business community.”

He added: “Strategically and geographically this is an important step in our plan for future expansion. I have to say it feels like a natural progression - and from a personal perspective, it’s good to be back.”