The leading set 29 Bedford Row has agreed to de-merge in a dramatic move prompted by the defection of four of its members to a new property chambers being formed by a splinter group from Hardwicke Building.

The decision will see 25 of the 45-tenant 29 Bedford Row staying put to re-style itself as a specialist family set. The rest, including Chancery specialist and head of chambers Peter Ralls QC, will be going their separate ways over the coming months.