Belfast-based Kennedy Recruitment, which provides temporary and permanent employment for nursing, professional, technical and medical sectors, has completed the acquisition of its local rival Maureen Lynn Recruitment, reports the Belfast Telegraph.

Kennedy expects the deal to boost turnover by more than £25 million and create jobs.

"This was an obvious and logical move for us,” John Kennedy, strategic director of Kennedy Recruitment, said. "We have enjoyed a period of sustained growth in recent years and have been on the lookout for high quality investment opportunities. We were absolutely delighted to get the opportunity to join forces with Lynn Recruitment as we both share a similar ethos and professional approach to recruitment."

The firm says while there are no plans to amalgamate the two companies.

Kennedy Recruitment has been operating for more than 27 years while Maureen Lynn Recruitment has been operating for 25 years.

Details of the transaction were not disclosed.