JOHN Morton has been announced as the new chairman at national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP.

A partner in commercial property and head of the Birmingham office, Jonathan takes over from Tim Walker who has served two consecutive three-year terms in the role.

Under Tim’s chairmanship the firm has seen office expansions in Manchester, London and Cardiff and a strong growth across the Partnership in terms of staff and partner numbers as well as turnover.

Jonathan, who was elected to the position by the firm’s other partners, said: “Clarke Willmott has been extremely fortunate, during Tim's term of office, to have the benefit of his wise counsel, stamina, and quiet authority. I am honoured to have been elected by the partners to follow Tim as chairman.

“Following the example of my predecessor, it is my intention to combine the role with client-facing duties, and in particular the maintenance and development of key client relationships.”

Clarke Willmott has seven regional offices and Jonathan will be working to maintain the culture and ethos of the firm.

Outgoing chairman Tim Walker, a Taunton-based partner, said: “During the last six years Clarke Willmott has seen sustained growth and adaptation through times of change.

"We now have an excellent range of skills which enable us to deliver a wide range of services to our clients.

“The firm is well placed with a good balance sheet and good people to continue to grow in a sustainable manner in future years. This has been achieved through the hard work, commitment and good humour of everyone working in Clarke Willmott. I am honoured to have served as chairman of the firm during this period and wish my successor the enjoyment I have had in the role.”

Jonathan Morton took over on May 1.