Shoosmiths’ eight-partner Banbury office has announced that it is to formally split from the firm’s regional network, taking 80 staff and its entire local practice with it.

After 47 years as part of Shoosmiths, the office will become part of a standalone firm operating under the name Spratt Endicott, after its two equity partners John Spratt and David Endicott. The split was decided after a strategic review, although Shoosmiths stressed that none of its other offices will be de-merged.