The newly acquired business will operate under the name Munro and Noble incorporating Georgesons.

The estate agents office is located in Wick and Tain, while the solicitors office is in Wick only — a joint building with the estate agents. A total of 12 employees from Georgesons will be retained, increasing Munro and Noble’s workforce to over 70.

The merger combines around 250 years of legal history and experience from both firms, which have roots dating back to the 1900s.

Senior partner Mary Nimmo said: “An opportunity for both firms to provide stability and continuity of service, preserving employment and affording Munro and Noble the opportunity to invest in both Wick and Tain areas.

“Georgesons are an incredibly well-respected law firm with a loyal bank of clients.”

Managing partner Alpin Stewart added: “We are pleased to welcome the entire team from Georgesons.

“Both firms have a lengthy history of serving our local communities and I have no doubt the enlarged firm will go from strength to strength.”

Munro and Noble now has offices in Inverness, Dingwall, Aviemore, Wick and Tain.

Ms Nimmo added: “Our partners believe in investment and growth, which will result in an increase in our resources throughout the area.

“We are pleased to welcome the team from Georgesons and all their clients into this new era.”