Irwin Mitchell is set to launch an alternative business licence (ABS) joint venture with insurer esure, deepening ties with the longstanding client.

The tie-up, IMe Law Limited, will see a dedicated Irwin Mitchell team in Sheffield provide legal representation for esure customers.

The Irwin Mitchell Group already operates a number of ABS units, including Irwin Mitchell limited liability partnership; Ascent Collections, which offers field agency and debt collection services; and Coris UK, which offers international assistance and insurance claims handling services.

IMe Law will become operational for new clients on 11 August, with Irwin Mitchell's existing clients transferring over on 1 September.

The firm has has worked with esure for more than ten years on personal injury claims and motor accidents where another party was at fault.

Irwin Mitchell Group Chief Executive Andrew Tucker said: "We have a long-standing relationship with esure and this is a further commitment by both businesses to that relationship for the longer term. It is a clear vote of confidence in the levels of service we have offered to esure's customers over many years and that will continue."

The licences were approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in 2012.