Annual awards go to ‘cream’ of the legal crop

Solicitors joined accountants, estate agents, bankers and financial advisors to celebrate the fifth annual Wolverhampton Law Society dinner and awards at the Molineux Stadium on Friday.

Four awards were presented with the winners chosen by an independent panel of leading business figures - Her Honour Judge Helen Hughes, the chief executive of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce Corin Crane, the Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Phil Page, Vicky Price from the city’s Grand Theatre and Peter Walton from the University of Wolverhampton.

The Professional of the Year, sponsored by the University of Wolverhampton, recognised an outstanding contribution to the local profession and was awarded to Alison Westwood from Thornes Solicitors.

The accolade for Professional Services Firm of the Year, sponsored by NO5 Chambers, went to George Green Solicitors with Prosperity Wealth picking up a highly commended prize.

Junior Professional of the Year, sponsored by Move Reports, was presented to Lauren Saville from Rees Page. Andy Gough from FBC Manby Bowdler was named Community Champion of the Year with his firm being highly commended. The Wolverhampton Law Society sponsored that category.

Gareth Ruddock, President of the Wolverhampton Law Society, who chaired the evening, said: “Our annual dinner and awards acknowledges the important role played by the professional services sector in supporting the businesses of Wolverhampton and the surrounding area.

“It is a thriving sector and that was reflected in the excellent nominees in all the categories. As ever, the awards were hotly contested and produced some very deserving nominees and winners.

“The evening was a great celebration of our city’s legal and professional services sector.”

Entertainment was provided by guest speaker Welsh rugby legend Scott Quinnell and The Secret Cabaret band performed at the 1920’s inspired evening.