A HEREFORD accountancy firm will have the resources to fulfil its vision of becoming the business adviser of choice, after it merges with an international accountancy network.

HLB Kidsons, which has an office in Holmer Road, is due to merge with Baker Tilly on Monday, April 1.

The merger will create the eighth largest accountancy firm in Britain, with annual fees of more than £150m, according to the company.

The new firm will operate under Baker Tilly International - the 11th biggest accountancy network in the world with a US turnover of $1.2 billion.

Allan Davies, managing partner at Baker Tilly/HLB Kidsons, Hereford, said the merger would enhance the firm's competitive position in the town by enabling it to provide market-leading services to entrepreneurial, owner-managed businesses and smaller quoted companies.

"We are committed to building our business in Hereford and now have the resources, expanded skill base and geographical spread to fulfil our corporate vision of becoming the business adviser of choice for ambitious, growing businesses," said Mr Davies.

It was an exciting opportunity for the partners, staff and clients, he added.

"This merger is proof of our commitment to growth and to leading the rapidly changing professional services sector by developing a bigger, better and stronger firm."