Now, with Wheeler currently away on maternity leave, acting MD Rick Guttridge told The Drum that a resolution has finally been met. He said: “There is final legal paperwork still being completed, but to all intents and purposes the deal is done. It has been agreed for some months.

“It’s been quite a slow process to get it to conclusion though, solicitors don’t tend to push these things through too quickly, but we’re now at a resolution.”

Brazen has never disclosed how much Bell’s shares in the business were worth, but The Drum understands that he owned 50 per cent of the company. While it’s difficult to put a price on a PR agency, figures released at the end of year 2006 valued Brazen at £148,000.

Over the years CheethamBell JWT and Brazen have shared a number of clients including Magnet and Vimto. Coach firm Shearings currently tasks both agencies.

Brazen was set up in 2001 by Wheeler and Emma Beck. Both formerly worked at Manchester-based agency Mason Williams.

Wheeler is expected to return to her role as MD within seven weeks.