Law firm Anthony Collins has made the unusual decision to appoint two senior partners, Ian McQuay and Romaine Thompson.

It follows the death of Martin Knox last October.

Anthony Collins said the decision, "made after a period of reflection by the partners, ensures that the firm, which is well known for the value it places on people and communities, will continue to put people at the heart of the organisation as it moves forward".

Mr McQuay said: "The firm does not operate in a hierarchical way with one partner exerting control over the others. We prefer to make decisions with as much unanimity as possible, and with our executive committee focusing debates and facilitating discussions."

The firm has gone through a period of sustained and successful growth over the last five years and was voted by local legal firms as the Law Firm of the Year in both 2003 and 2004. It has been particularly successful at attracting and retaining high quality lawyers and secretaries and the senior partners see a key part of their role in understanding and representing the broad interests of its 200 staff and 20 partners.

Ms Thompson said: "I am pleased to be taking on this role with Ian as we continue to go from strength to strength across all practice areas. I look forward to playing a role in maintaining our strong profile within our diverse niche markets - which is the work that makes us distinctive."