Ralph Lewis QC has been named as the new head of No5 Chambers, taking the helm of the UK's largest barristers' set.

Lewis – a personal injury and clinical negligence specialist – replaced Gareth Evans QC in the role at the end of last month (29 January) after an unopposed election. Lewis was called to the Bar in 1978 and took silk in 1999.

Commenting on the appointment, Lewis said: "My new role comes at an interesting and challenging time of change for the legal profession. The intention is to build on our strengths as a chambers to serve clients across the UK. The centre of our operation is in Birmingham but our offices in London and Bristol are essential to our strategy."

The news comes as it emerges that No5 has expanded further after recruiting a four-member injury and employment team from 3 Paper Buildings at the end of last year.

Paul Cairnes and Richard Case joined No5 in Bristol, while Russell Bailey joined in London and Irvine Maccabe in became the latest addition in the set's Birmingham hub.

The news comes shortly after No5 moved into new premises in the capital at the end of last year, bringing members previously split between 199 and 218 The Strand under a single roof on Shoe Lane.

Practice director Tony McDaid said: "No5 Chambers has become both larger and more cohesive in recent years. Our new leadership will help to drive our plans forward and assist our members develop their practices with a strong back-up service."