Independent stockbroker Havelock Hunter, based in Tunbridge Wells, has been bought by national investment management business Redmayne-Bentley, extending its reach to the county.

Law firm Cripps, also in Tunbridge Wells, advised during the acquisition.

Havelock Hunter co-owner James Havelock Andrews said: “We have been close to Redmayne-Bentley for quite some time and over the years have often found the time to discuss industry developments and prevailing market conditions with our peers.

“Becoming part of a larger group will bring many new benefits to our clients, whilst still enabling us to continue to provide the same level of personal service that our clients expect and deserve.”

The five-strong multi-disciplinary team from Cripps was led by partner Nigel Stanford.

He said: “We were delighted to be part of the continued success of Havelock Hunter and to have been able to guide it through the merger process.

“It was a complicated deal taking several months and we advised on all aspects of the sale and after-sale tax position.

“The firm has been clients for a number of years and we are looking forward to continuing to help on their growth path.”