Built on a simple idea: things work better when they work together. 

Walter H. Oury forms a partnership with Major Reid on Eton High Street, creating Reid & Oury.

Two different minds, one shared goal: give straightforward advice that actually helps people make decisions.

The partnership dissolves - reportedly due to Major Reid spending rather too much time at the pub. Walter carries on alone in Slough, building a practice defined by consistency, commitment, and doing things properly.

Richard Oury joins as a trainee, soon followed by his brother Brian. The family business takes shape, built not just on expertise, but on trust, continuity and long‑term thinking.

The brothers decide to go their separate ways, and the firm divides. Richard goes on to build Clarks, laying the groundwork for what Oury Clark would eventually become: independent, focused, and evolving.

James Oury, Richard’s son, qualifies as both accountant and solicitor and establishes Oury Colhoun & Co in London. For the first time, legal and financial thinking truly begin to merge - a shift that changes everything.

Oury Colhoun evolves into Oury Clark, creating one of the UK’s first single‑branded, multidisciplinary firms. Law and accounting, properly together… because separating them never quite worked in practice.

A purpose‑built Slough office marks a step forward and a physical reflection of a firm that’s growing, but deliberately so. Oury Clark is structured, considered and here for the long term.

The move to John Street brings the firm into the city, as new partners join and the practice expands. A bigger stage, but the same philosophy: keep it clear, keep it joined‑up, keep it sensible.

The Toby Awards are introduced in memory of Toby Smith, a much‑loved partner known for his character, generosity and commitment to doing things the right way. The awards recognise those who carry those values forward, because how we show up for clients, and for each other, is what defines the firm. TJ Awards - Oury Clark

Nine decades on, the firm celebrates a milestone that few reach. Different markets, different challenges but the same commitment to clarity, service and joined‑up thinking runs all the way through.

Today, Oury Clark is still privately owned, with over 150 people working across its London and Slough offices. We are one of the largest independent firms in the Thames Valley, and a Gold Member of London & Partners. We support around 300 businesses each year in establishing themselves in the UK, and continue to be recognised for outstanding client service, including the Tolley’s Tax Award (2024 & 2026).