Historic Clitheroe law firm joins Farleys Solicitors

Farleys Solicitors, part of Lawfront, has expanded its presence in Lancashire with the acquisition of Clitheroe based Houldsworth Solicitors.

The acquisition marks the latest stage in Farleys’ continued growth across the north west and further strengthens the firm’s ability to provide a broad range of legal services to individuals, families and businesses across Ribble Valley and the surrounding areas.

Houldsworth Solicitors has a history dating back to 1817 and has built a strong reputation in Clitheroe and the wider Ribble Valley area. All employees from Houldsworth Solicitors will be retained as part of the move, ensuring continuity for existing clients while bringing the team into a larger regional firm with access to wider expertise, enhanced resources and the backing of Lawfront, the fast-growing legal services group.

Amanda Hall, managing director at Houldsworth Solicitors, said: “Houldsworth has been part of the Clitheroe and Ribble Valley community for generations, and it was important to us that any move protected the relationships we have built with our clients while creating new opportunities for our team.

“Becoming part of Farleys allows us to continue delivering the local service our clients know and trust, while giving them access to a broader range of expertise and resources as their needs evolve.”

Ian Liddle, managing partner at Farleys Solicitors, said: “Retaining the full team was extremely important to us, both to protect the trusted relationships Houldsworth has built with its clients and to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.

“We are a proud Lancashire firm and this acquisition allows us to strengthen our presence in the area while protecting the local relationships and personal approach that clients value.”

“With the support of Lawfront, we will continue to invest in our people, our services and our regional footprint.”

The deal follows Farleys’ previous acquisitions of Mulderrigs Solicitors in Rawtenstall in 2023 and Alker Ball Healds in Wigan in 2025, and forms part of the firm’s long term strategy to grow sustainably through investment in people, services and carefully selected local firms with strong reputations in their communities.

Peter Martin-Simon, CEO of Lawfront, said: “At Lawfront we back our regional firms to accelerate their growth ambitions and are thrilled to be supporting Farleys in this third acquisition since they joined the group in 2022.

“This is Lawfront’s 18th acquisition and is another positive demonstration of our commitment to investing in our firms and we are pleased to be welcoming Amanda and the team from Houldsworth Solicitors as they join our growth journey.”