AWB Charlesworth Solicitors has been acquired by three members of its management team in a move which retains the independent ownership of the Yorkshire firm.

The management buyout (MBO) was led by directors Declan Hayes, James Dunn and Jenny Barron, who now take on the roles of Managing Director, Head of Finance and Head of Marketing, respectively.

Supporting the MBO are Felicity Green, Head of Operations, Chris Cooper, Head of Litigation, Mark Shaw, Head of Private Client and Claire Roberts, Head of the Bradford office.

The buyout was fully supported by exiting shareholders, Umberto Vietri and David Tear, who stay in their senior roles in company and commercial law, and litigation.

Mr Vietri said: “AWB Charlesworth is in a fortunate position right now.

“We’re embedded in the community, serving local families and businesses across multiple generations, and this has proven to be the bedrock of our success.

“We will continue to build the firm, based on our long-standing principles of professionalism, expertise and excellent customer service.”

AWB Charlesworth operates three offices across the Aire Valley, in Skipton, Keighley and Bradford, and have just celebrated a year of record-high revenue.

Mr Hayes said: “We are delighted that we retain Umberto and David, and their knowledge, expertise and significant reputation.

“Whilst additionally, we are perfectly placed to take on new opportunities and create sustainable growth, with the ambitious new management team.”