Brown & Brown has strengthened its UK presence with the acquisition of broker Weatherbys Hamilton, with effect from 1 August.

Founded in 2012 as a joint venture between Weatherbys Bank and executive chairman Charles Hamilton, Weatherbys Hamilton was later joined by founding partners Alec Moore, Richard Chugg, Beth Sharkey, and William Johnson. The firm specialises in bloodstock, farm & estate, and private client insurance.

Post acquisition, all members of the Weatherbys Hamilton team will remain with the business, continuing to operate from their existing locations and trading under the Weatherbys Hamilton name as part of the Brown & Brown team.

Carolyn Callan, CEO retail at Brown & Brown (Europe), said: “We’re very pleased to welcome Weatherbys Hamilton to Brown & Brown. It was clear from the beginning that there was true cultural alignment between the two businesses. They bring strong sector specialisation, a fantastic team led by joint CEOs, Alec and Richard, and a reputation built on trust and service. We look forward to supporting them as they continue to do what they do best.”

Charles Hamilton, executive chairman of Weatherbys Hamilton, added: “Weatherbys Hamilton has always been about deep relationships, specialist experience, and doing things the right way. I’m proud of what we’ve built and excited to see the business continue to grow within Brown & Brown. We have always had a strong relationship with Brown & Brown, and I know they’ll carry forward everything that makes this firm special.”