Crispin Cripwell takes a role as investment manager at the national investment and wealth management group.

Mr Cripwell will divide his time between spearheading the development of a Newbury office as a base for serving clients across the home counties, South England, and Walker Crips’ London headquarters.

He has managed portfolios for nearly 25 years, including 15 years spent in institutional fund management. Since 2008, He has focused on private clients including family trusts, charities and individuals.

Rodney Fitzgerald, chief executive, Walker Crips, said: "Crispin brings a wealth of experience and adds to the steady flow of talented investment managers who have chosen to join Walker Crips in recent years. We consider this an endorsement of our strategy to put our clients at the forefront of all we do, offering a personal service to meet their investment needs."

Mr Cripwell said: "I am excited to be joining Walker Crips. The firm's focus on customer service and lasting relationships, its strong balance sheet and first-class systems create a compelling proposition for clients.”