Colin Biggers & Paisley has recruited Stuart Hetherington to boost its maritime and insurance practice.

Hetherington comes directly from his own firm, Withnell Hetherington, which he set up in 1998 with Rod Withnell.

He told ALB that the decision to leave was largely motivated by his desire to expand his insurance client base.

"Most insurance companies require a panel of law firms, and they won't appoint a two- partner firm," he said.

Clients on Hetherington's books include the QBE Insurance Group, Lumley Life and Associated Marine. He is also one of two vice presidents of the Comite Maritime International (CMI) organisation.

Rod Withnell is continuing to practice as a sole practitioner under the name Withnell & Co.