A consultant at WHN has marked a career milestone by announcing his retirement.
Former partner, David Smith, has retired after attaining 44 years of service at WHN Solicitors. His substantial career in law was recognised with a WHN afternoon celebration.
The 66 year old, born in Unsworth Village, started work at the firm in 1970 as an articled clerk to Brian Woodcock and was based at the firm’s Bury office.
David qualified as a Solicitor in 1972 at which point it was clear that he was destined for greater things and moved to the Haslingden office in 1973 where he dealt with some of the major commercial clients of the firm.
David became a junior partner in the firm in 1974 before becoming an equity partner in 1976.
David’s wife, Helen Law, who joined the firm as an articled clerk in 1990 was also in attendance at the celebration as were their sons, Austin and Miles. Helen has recently returned to the practice and specialises in wills, trusts and probate. She will now take on some of David’s private client work.
Stephen Parr, partner and head of the private client department, said: “I started out as David’s trainee solicitor and so after years working with him it is with great sadness that we say goodbye to him.
“It’s been a pleasure to work with such a highly skilled solicitor. In my time here I have been aware of David’s unrivalled reputation and client base.
“His expertise in commercial and property work, along with wills, trusts and tax means that David headed both of these departments at the firm and will continue to retain a link with some of our established clients.
“Congratulations to David, he’s contributed so much over the years and we wish him a long, healthy and happy retirement.”