THE shortlist has been announced for the first ever president's awards of Worcestershire Law Society with leading lawyers and legal practices from across the county nominated. Nine lawyers and seven law firms are among the contenders across six categories, which include awards for young solicitor of the year, best website and a lifetime achievement honour. The winners will be announced at a gala black-tie dinner at Droitwich’s Chateau Impney hotel on Friday, April 11.

Worcestershire Law Society president Iain Morrison said: “We have seen an overwhelming response to the society’s first ever president’s awards. The quality of entries from across Worcestershire’s legal industry has been extremely high and in all categories the judges have had tough decisions to make. Overall, it has been fantastic to see such a high calibre. The depth of talent and professionalism we have across law firms here in the county is superb. The awards evening will be an opportunity to showcase the quality and diversity the county’s legal firms and their teams have. It promises to be a great event and I look forward to welcoming everyone.”

The shortlist comprises:

Trainee Solicitor of the Year: Amy Harron, Thursfields, Priya Tromans, Harrison Clark Rickerbys and Lara Wilkinson, Russell & Co.

Young Solicitor of the Year: Kirsty Gilmour, Harrison Clark Rickerbys, Stephen Foster, Hallmark Hulme and Alexandra Phillips, mfg Solicitors.

Solicitor of the Year: Lesley Bartlett, Hallmark Hulme, Kevin Joynes, Harrison Clark Rickerbys and Tracy Parry, mfg Solicitors.

Professional Discipline Award (family Law team): mfg Solicitors, Painters Solicitors and Penny Raby & Co

Innovation Award (best website): Harrison Clark Rickerbys, mfg Solicitors and Penny Raby & Co

The winner of the lifetime achievement award will be revealed during the evening, which will be hosted by BBC news correspondent Phil Mackie. The event will include a three-course meal, a short address by Judge William Davis QC and live music from Ministry of Soul. Tables of 10 are available for £450.00 and businesses or individuals can email the society’s secretary Tom Evans through tevans@russell-law.co.uk.