Lawyer Andrew Harding has returned to the island.

The Manxman is moving from Appleby’s Guernsey operation to join Douglas firm DQ Advocates.

He will run the company’s corporate and commercial division and is a director of the practice.

Mr Harding, who was educated at Braddan Primary School and Ballakemeen High School, said: ’I am thrilled to be joining DQ, especially at such an exciting time for the firm.

’It is clear that the company is going from strength to strength and I look forward to helping further strengthen and grow our business while ensuring our existing clients continue to receive the high level of service they expect.’

During his time at Appleby, Andrew was a partner in the corporate department and involved in various high-value deals, including a number of high-profile merger and acquisition transactions.

His experience in corporate and commercial matters saw him recognised as a ’leading individual’ in the Legal 500 UK, an industry guide that profiles and ranks lawyers.

DQ managing director Mark Dougherty said: ’We are delighted to welcome Andrew to our team and are very proud that he has chosen to join us.

’Not only is he a well-respected advocate on the island with a track record of hard work, experience and expertise, but he is committed to delivering a first-class level of service to clients, something we pride ourselves in.’