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U.K. law firms Moore Blatch and Barlow Robbins have agreed to merge, the firms have announced.

Beginning on May 1, the firms will operate as newly-combined firm Moore Barlow which, with a combined revenue of about $52 million, places the firm well within the U.K. Top 100, at between 75th and 80th.

Before the merger, Moore Blatch teetered at the edge of the Top 100, while Barlow Robbins has not previously ranked within the top tier.

According to a joint statement by the firms, the combined entity will comprise 70 partners and 272 lawyers and legal professionals, and a total staff of nearly 500 across six U.K. offices based in Southampton, Guildford, Woking, Lymington, Richmond and the City of London.

The new firm's client base will focus primarily on private individuals and families, owners and managers of businesses, as well as on providing advice to people affected by negligence and accidents.

The move is the latest significant combination of U.K. law firms, and follows the 2018 merger of Bircham Dyson Bell and Pitmans, which created a firm with revenues of about $65 million.

Helen Goatley, chairman of Barlow Robbins, said in a statement: "We feel strongly that the focus on people which lies at the heart of Moore Barlow will truly set us apart in the marketplace."

She added: "Today's top talent also want the right mix of a stimulating, rewarding career alongside a fulfilling work-life balance, an experience which we feel Moore Barlow will be uniquely suited to offer, and from which our clients can only benefit."

Elsewhere, listed law firm Knights Group has acquired two separate legal businesses: Leeds-based law firm, Shulmans for about $26 million; and ASB Law, based in Kent and West Sussex, for a further about $11 million. Both deals are set to complete in April, according to a statement made by the company on the London Stock Exchange