THERE have been celebrations at a Bury and Bolton-based law firm as two of its top lawyers enjoyed double exams success and the company welcomed a new starter.

Solicitors Rhianna Bateson and Sarah Greene, of Clough & Willis, have successfully completed two of the legal profession's core qualifications.

Ms Bateson, an associate solicitor in the Private Client team, has secured the Society of Trust and Estate Practioners (STEP) Diploma.

The qualification is a prestigious industry standard in practical understanding of the law and procedures involved in trust and estate administration, tax and accounting.

Ms Greene, meanwhile, a solicitor in the Private Client team, has completed the Solicitors for the Elderly qualification.

This qualification is awarded by the independent legal organisation of the same name and its training helps firms better handle enquiries from older clients.

Clough & Willis has also appointed Joshua Beattie as a paralegal in the litigation team.

Mr Beattie will be working with the department’s senior team, shadowing colleagues in employment, personal injury and dispute resolution teams, and studying for his Legal Practice Course part-time.

Lee Marston, managing partner at Clough & Willis, said: “As a firm, we strongly advocate nurturing and developing talent from within, so Rhianna and Sarah’s achievements are testament to that approach.

"We are also delighted to welcome Joshua to the team who, I’m sure, will add real value to the business and our clients over the coming years.”