New figures show the fifth largest firm gained 17 clients in the first quarter taking its total to 232 AIM clients, according to Hemscott.

Head of professional affairs at the firm, Steve Maslin, said: ‘The really exciting aspect of our AIM dominance is that it is proving to be a springboard to success in the full list where the market has clearly indicated it will not accept over reliance on four firms.

‘Eighteen months ago we had one audit client in the FTSE 250, today we have six and we see that trend continuing.

‘Our transaction with Robson Rhodes last year also helped to consolidate our sector leadership, for example bringing a strong financial services team to bolster our already strong sector teams such as those in media and property.’

PricewaterhouseCooper lost six clients in the first quarter, allowing Deloitte to leap into fourth place with 136 clients, while KPMG remains in second place with 189. Despite losing four clients BDO holds on to its third place position, according to the Hemscott AIM advisers rankings guide.

By industry sector Grant Thornton leads the way in industrials, consumer goods, consumer services and technology. FTSE AIM 100 clients are still audited mainly by the Big Four.