A Botley accountancy firm has merged with a rival practice in Henley.

All 12 staff at Cave Harper will transfer to James Cowper following the deal which has been struck for an undisclosed sum.

Adrian Rann, managing partner at James Cowper, said: "Cave Harper is a niche practice whose client profile fits well with James Cowper's private client expertise.

"One of our strategic objectives has been to grow our presence in the private client sector and this merger gives us a high profile platform in Henley where we see tremendous potential for further growth."

Cave Harper previously part of the long-established firm, Spencer Ell, specialises in the management of trusts, landed estates and private client tax.

Cave Harper partner Anne Menzies said: "Our clients will benefit from us being part of a larger firm and the access to services and marketing support that brings."

James Cowper employs 170 people and also has offices in Reading and Newbury.