DWF has kept on 16 of 18 newly-qualified (NQs) lawyers in this year's intake, equating to a retention rate of 89%.

The firm, which runs just one trainee intake per year, offered all 18 trainees a role at the firm, with two opting not to accept.

Six of the NQs will now be based in the firm's Manchester office, with five in Liverpool, four in Leeds and one in London.