Blake Lapthorn, Bevan Brittan make up three partners apiece

South West firm Bevan Brittan and the South East's Blake Lapthorn Linnell have each promoted three lawyers to their partnerships.

Bevan Brittan's promotions were split across its three offices: Ruth Smith became a partner in Bristol's commercial team, Andrew Tobin was promoted in London's commercial team, while Colette McCormack was made up in Birmingham's planning team. It brings the number of partners at the firm to 68.

Chief executive Stuart Whitfield said: "This year's round of promotions highlights the breadth of talent across the firm and reflects our commitment to growing the business on a national level." Last year Bevan Brittan promoted just one partner.

Blake Lapthorn Linnell has also made up three partners - half the number of promotions it made last year.

The Oxford office made up regulatory specialist Chris Alder and litigator Chris Potts. Meanwhile, the Portsmouth office promoted Manoj Styche-Patel in the company commercial group.

Senior partner Jonathan Lloyd-Jones said: "We're very pleased to be able to promote our new partners and senior solicitors, as it's a reflection of their hard work and input to the firm, as well as confirming the strength of the people we have coming through."