TWO of Worcester’s oldest law firms have joined together to create a “super practice” for the 21st century.

Hallmarks, which can trace its history back more than 200 years, and Hulme & Co, which is more than 100 years old, have combined to make HallmarkHulme.

The new firm, with seven partners, will operate from Hallmark’s existing offices in Sansome Place, Worcester Tim Sherwood of Hulme & Co said: “We soon realised in our initial discussions that both firms share the same focus on providing the best possible service to our clients. HallmarkHulme will build on this approach. With the personnel and expertise available to the new company, we will be able to provide a really excellent and comprehensive legal service.”

Martin Thomas of Hallmarks said: “This is a very positive development for both companies and their clients. HallmarkHulme will have a very experienced group of specialists with excellent resources who will be able to provide a complete legal service to new and existing clients.”

Both Hallmarks and Hulme & Co are prominent members of Worcester’s business community and the latter has deep roots in Worcestershire and particularly strong links with the local agricultural community. The new firm will officially start on January 1.