Press & Events

Legal News & Company Updates

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21/05/2012 - Reservoirs and Water Shortages
Planning permission is required for most reservoirs, although there are some which can be constructed as “permitted development” under planning legislation however these would have to be minor in scale.

16/05/2012 - The Dangers of Posting Comments on Facebook
The Northern Ireland industrial tribunal (the term “employment tribunal” is not used in Northern Ireland) recently held that an employee who posted vulgar comments about a female colleague on Facebook was not unfairly dismissed and that his dismissal was not in breach of his human rights.

15/05/2012 - Ask the Architect Clinic on Friday 18 May
The next Ask the Architect Clinic will be held at our offices in Shrewsbury this Friday 18 May.

11/05/2012 - Credit Control Network Event Focuses on Distance Sellings Regulations
Our next Credit Control Network event in June will be very relevant to any business selling goods or services at a distance, as partner and dispute resolution solicitor Brian Evans will be talking about the Distance Selling Regulations.

03/05/2012 - Lanyon Bowdler Are In Tune With Local Poet
As part of its arts sponsorship programme, Lanyon Bowdler is supporting the St Chad’s Music Festival, which takes place from 4 to 7 May, at St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury.

01/05/2012 - Free Farming Update Seminars in Hereford and Ludlow
At the end of this month we will be hosting a free seminar aimed at farmers, growers and professional advisers in the rural community (in association with John Amos & Co) at venues in Ludlow and Hereford.

27/04/2012 - Care Home Fees - Register Your Claim for Repayment of Fees Before It is Too Late
Unknown to many, the Department of Health has set a deadline for families seeking to claim repayment of care home fees, where it is felt that they were wrongly charged. The cut off date is 30 September 2012. Unless families disputing fees paid between 1 April 2004 and 31 March 2011 register their claim before this date they will be unable to bring a claim

16/04/2012 - Loop Hole in the Law means Compensation may be Available for Off Road or Quad Bike Injuries
In the UK there are tens of thousands of “Off Road” vehicles, motocross and trail bikes, go karts, builders vehicles such as dumper trucks, cranes or forklifts. The Road Traffic Act 1988 does not require for all of them to be insured in the same way as a car, this can mean that an innocent pedestrian run down or injured by a motocross trail bike, driven by a thief or joy rider will not be covered by any insurance, and will therefore be unable to obtain compensation for what can, in some cases, be catastrophic injuries.

11/04/2012 - Free Ask the Architect Clinics in April and May
To get a foot on the property ladder or to extend an existing property, many people look towards the self build option.

02/04/2012 - Free Seminar - Legal Aspects of Online Business
Do you know what your online legal obligations are?

23/03/2012 - A Warm Welcome back to Derek Cook
We are pleased to welcome back senior private client practitioner Derek Cook who is based at our office in Hereford. Derek worked at the Shrewsbury office for five years, before moving to work in Birmingham. Having spent a number of years making the commute across to the West Midlands he is now delighted to be able to turn his attentions to the residents of Herefordshire and the surrounding regions.

22/03/2012 - Shropshire Youth Theatre Prepare for First Performance of The Caucasian Chalk Circle
The ambitious Shropshire Youth Theatre has been a hive of activity for the past few months with preparations and rehearsals for the company’s next annual production – Bertolt Brecht’s ‘The Caucasian Chalk Circle’. The play, sponsored by Lanyon Bowdler, is being performed at Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn on Friday 23 and Saturday 24 March 2012.

09/03/2012 - FILEX Status Achievement for Family Lawyer
Lanyon Bowdler’s family law department has recently been strengthened further with a member of their team achieving fellowship status from the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives.

06/03/2012 - Spaces Filling Quickly at Forthcoming Employment Law Seminars
As every employer will be aware, to understand and manoeuvre the minefield that is employment law it is vital for organisations keep their knowledge up to date. It is therefore no surprise that the latest round of Lanyon Bowdler's employment law seminars are proving extremely popular, with places filling fast at all four venues in Shrewsbury, Shifnal, Hereford and Oswestry.

01/03/2012 - Ask the Architect Clinic Offers Free Advice
Matthew Franklin of MBF Design runs regular Ask the Architect clinics from our Shrewsbury offices on Abbey Lawn, and the next event, which is free to attend, will be held on Friday 9 March.

24/02/2012 - Paula Nash is Shortlisted for Bimingham Law Society Awards
Once again it is good news at Lanyon Bowdler, Paula Nash, partner and head of the Clinical Negligence team has been shortlisted by Birmingham Law Society for the title of Partner of the Year in their annual awards.

17/02/2012 - Town and Country Planning Expertise in Shropshire and Hereford
Lanyon Bowdler is renowned for offering a full range of specialist legal services, which also includes town and country planning. Our Town and Country Planning department is able to offer individuals, businesses and landowners all the necessary legal advice and guidance on a full range of related issues.

13/02/2012 - High Speed Train Link to Affect Homes Businesses and Countryside
Approval has been given for the controversial high speed rail network planned to offer a faster link between London and the West Midlands.

07/02/2012 - Reaccreditation to Headway UK the Brain Injury Association Personal Injury Solicitors List
Suffering a brain injury can have an overwhelming impact on both the victim and their family - in some cases often transforming life completely.

31/01/2012 - Headphones Danger to Pedestrians and Cyclists
With the advancement in technology, marvellous devices such as the Ipod allow people to listen to music wherever they go. However recent studies have shown an increase in accidents involving pedestrians because of the use of such devices.

25/01/2012 - Employment Update Seminars in Shropshire and Herefordshire
Every employer is no doubt aware that to understand and manoeuvre the minefield that is employment law it is vital for organisations keep their knowledge up to date.

20/01/2012 - Free Seminar Offers IHT Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney Advice
New Year is synonymous with new resolutions, and what could be more important than resolving to review your personal affairs and finances to ensure that they are in order? It is something most people will have at the back of their minds, but sometimes day to day life can get in the way of doing anything about it, or the task can seem simply too overwhelming and complicated to deal with.

17/01/2012 - Ask the Architect Clinics in 2012
Lanyon Bowdler, in association with Matthew Franklin of MBF Design will be holding regular Ask the Architect sessions from the Shrewsbury offices on Abbey Lawn.

11/01/2012 - Magistrates May Receive Extra Powers
Under new reforms currently being considered by the Government, magistrates may soon be given extra powers to impose penalties at police stations.

06/01/2012 - Caucasian Chalk Circle Rehearsals Well Underway
Now that the New Year is established, the Shropshire Youth Theatre is keen to get back to work in rehearsals for their forthcoming play ‘The Caucasian Chalk Circle’ which is being sponsored by Lanyon Bowdler. The play is to run from Friday 23 to Saturday 24 March 2012 at Shrewsbury's Theatre Severn.

03/01/2012 - Divorce Can Happen At Any Time of Life
An Italian couple recently became the world’s oldest divorcees after the 99 year old husband discovered his 96 year old wife had had an affair during the 1940’s. Reported in The Telegraph, the case occurred after the husband was searching through an old chest of drawers, and discovered old love letters hidden by his wife. Despite the wife confessing to the betrayal, she was unable to persuade her husband to change his mind about the divorce, regardless of the couple’s history and five children, dozen grandchildren and one great grandchild.

22/12/2011 - Fee Earner Wendy Wilkinson Bows Out After 46 Years
Christmas will be tinged with a little sadness for staff at Lanyon Bowdler as they say their fond farewells to a member of the team who has been with firm for the last 46 years!

16/12/2011 - Personal Injury Drop In Clinics in Oswestry
Residents of Oswestry and the Marches who need advice on potential injury claims are encouraged to make good use of free drop-in clinics being held by Lanyon Bowdler.

13/12/2011 - The Localism Act - Reforms to the Planning System
The Localism Act received Royal Assent on 15 November 2011 and is coming into force in stages. One of the key features of the Act provides for reforms to the planning system and in particular new planning enforcement measures.

05/12/2011 - Local Personal Injury Expertise Available for Ludlow and Hereford Residents
Residents of South Shropshire and Herefordshire can now benefit from expert personal injury advice on their doorstep following the restructure of Lanyon Bowdler’s personal injury team.

02/12/2011 - Proposed Abolition of Legal Aid for Clinical Negligence Claims
Many will breathe a sigh of relief today with news that there will be a delay in implementation of new rules governing civil legal aid. The announcement was made in a written statement to Parliament and moves the implementation date from the October 2012 to April 2013.

01/12/2011 - Oswestry and The Marches Residents Urged to Make Use of Free Drop-In Clinics
Residents of Oswestry and the Marches who need advice on potential injury claims are encouraged to make good use of free drop-in clinics we are holding at our Oswestry offices.

29/11/2011 - New Guidelines from NICE on the Right to Choose a Caesarean Birth

24/11/2011 - Shropshire Music Trust Events
Lanyon Bowdler has been sponsoring Shropshire Music Trust and its talent for many years, and once again we are proud to show our support by helping to bring outstanding live music to the local areas.

17/11/2011 - Social Housing System - A Travesty for the Disabled
A recent report written by Charlotte Hester for the Shrewsbury Chronicle, spoke about the plight of Sandra Burke, a disabled woman living alone in a three-bedroom house in Shrewsbury, who has had to wait for over two years for suitable adapted Local Authority accommodation. This report promoted Paula Nash, a partner with Lanyon Bowdler, to air her concerns saying “I fear this is the tip of the iceberg in Shropshire and across the UK.”

28/10/2011 - Recognition by Chambers UK Directory
This year three of our solicitors, have been recognised as ‘Leaders in their Field’ by legal directory Chambers UK.

24/10/2011 - Care of the Elderly
The NHS is again being criticised for the poor standard of care they are providing for elderly patients.

20/10/2011 - Employers Warned to Ensure Screen Wash Added to Wiper Fluid
Legionnaires disease, the potentially fatal form of pneumonia, has been recently considered by The European Agency for Staff and Health at Work, who have published a new report and a fact sheet on the incidence of the disease.

18/10/2011 - A More Transparent NHS
The Department of Health has on 11 October 2011 issued a paper for consultation proposing the implementation of a duty of candour on NHS providers.

14/10/2011 - Homeowners Warned Over Renting Rooms During London 2012 Games
If you are thinking about making the most of your spare room during the London 2012 Olympics, you may like to think again. The BBC has discovered that some Londoners, considering renting out their homes during the games, risk breaking the law and being fined.

07/10/2011 - Restructuring of Personal Injury Team Ensures Legal Services Delivered to Local Doorsteps
Lanyon Bowdler’s personal injury team has been restructured in order to ensure quality legal advice, and support, is readily available across the firm’s offices throughout Shropshire and Herefordshire.

06/10/2011 - Autumn Drinks Evening at Hereford Cathedral
To celebrate the firm’s presence in Hereford, Lanyon Bowdler, once again proved legal services can be entertaining; by holding an early autumn drinks evening in the College Hall - part of the magnificent Hereford Cathedral.

04/10/2011 - Agricultural Fencing Contractor Overturns Decision Made by VOSA
Mike Bradbury, an agricultural fencing contractor with over 40 years experience in the industry, was served with five summonses in relation to driving his agricultural specification Mercedes Benz Unimog 1600 on the A49 in Herefordshire.

28/09/2011 - Success for Lanyon Bowdler in the 2011 Legal 500
Lanyon Bowdler has once again received numerous recommendations by the leading Legal Sector Directory. The twenty-fourth edition of the Legal 500 continues to provide independent, unbiased feedback on leading law firms and lawyers across the UK. The rankings within the directory are based on a substantial amount of research, including discussions with clients as well as comprehensive submissions.

26/09/2011 - Problems with Insolvent Landlords
It is not only tenants that go broke: increasingly, overstretched landlords are in danger of becoming insolvent.

19/09/2011 - Joint Presentation with Insolvency Practitioners
Lanyon Bowdler has joined forces with licensed insolvency practitioners Griffin & King to provide an insight into how both professions can compliment each other's services.

13/09/2011 - Road Traffic Law and the Cyclist
With the day to day rises in running a car, more and more people are looking at a cheaper, more environmentally friendly option - the bike. But did you know however that you could fall foul of the law for the following offences?

07/09/2011 - Agency Worker Regulations 2010
The Agency Worker Regulations 2010 come into force on 1 October 2010. This legislation gives agency workers the same basic working and employment conditions (which are pay, the duration of working time, night work, rest periods, rest breaks and holidays) as he/she would ordinarily have been entitled to for doing the same job, had they been recruited (at the time they were) directly by the hirer rather than through an agency.

05/09/2011 - Homeowners Warned - Mortgages Must Come First
If you’re thinking about having another meal out this week or booking that second holiday then forget it. Meeting your mortgage repayments must come first above all luxuries, experts have warned.

26/08/2011 - Employment Law Seminars - September 2011
As every employer will be aware, employment law is constantly changing and it is of vital importance that organisations keep up to date and well informed about employer and employee rights and obligations.

22/08/2011 - Introduction of Cycle to Work Scheme
We are always looking for ways to add to our green credentials, so we are pleased to announce that we have now signed up to the Cycle to Work Scheme.

15/08/2011 - Show Garden Wins Gold at Shrewsbury Flower Show
Lanyon Bowdler has once again come up trumps! Following the tremendous success at last years Shrewsbury Flower Show, the firm again sponsored a Show Garden – this time for Severndale Specialist School. Judging took place on Thursday, prior to the Show opening to the public on Friday 12 August. There was stiff competition, but the firm were delighted to be awarded one of Shropshire Horticultural Society’s Gold Medals.

11/08/2011 - Good News for Riot Victims - Right to Compensation
Riot victims who do not have insurance to cover damage to their property or goods may still be able to claim compensation for their losses under the Riot (Damages) Act 1886. This old piece of legislation allows the victims of a riot to claim compensation from the Police Authority in the area in which the riot took place.

08/08/2011 - Centralisation of Oswestry Offices
Following Lanyon Bowdler's merger with long-established LG Solicitors in May 2010, the firm is now taking steps to centralise its Oswestry based residential and commercial property teams.

08/08/2011 - A Busy Day at Burwarton Show
Once again we offered visitors to Burwarton Show, the chance to win a fun day out. On a day of ‘liquid sunshine’ more than 250 people entered a competition to guess how many of the infamous Lanyon Bowdler teddy bears were hiding in a hay filled crate, the lucky prize winners were announced towards the end of the day.

27/07/2011 - Lanyon Bowdler Schedules Further Employment Law Seminars
The next round of Lanyon Bowdler’s popular Employment Law seminars will be held in September 2011 in four locations across the Shropshire and Herefordshire area. In addition to John Merry’s usual round up of recent developments in employment law, valuable guidance will be provided on the Bribery Act 2011.

15/07/2011 - The Changing Face of the Legal Profession - ABS Introduction on 6 October 2011
From 6 October 2011, non-lawyers will be able to apply for licences to become alternative business structures (ABS), opening up the doors for companies such as Tesco and WH Smith to expand their legal services and substantially widen the legal market.

04/07/2011 - Industrial Deafness Warning
Many people in Shropshire may not realise their place of work could result in them suffering from industrial deafness, which is also know as occupational deafness or noise induced hearing loss, as this is a risk associated with many industries from manufacturing and engineering to call centres.

01/07/2011 - Introduction of Feed In Tariffs by Department of Energy and Climate Change
Since the introduction last year of Feed-In Tariffs (FITs) by the Department of Energy and Climate Change, a market has developed in offering Homeowners free installation of photovoltaic panels on to their roofs.

28/06/2011 - Accidents Abroad and What To Do
Neil Lorimer, partner and Head of Personal Injury with local law firm Lanyon Bowdler, gives sound advice to holidaymakers abroad.

23/06/2011 - Lucy Regan Qualifies as Solicitor
The hard work and studying has finally paid off for trainee solicitor Lucy Regan, who has just qualified as a fully fledged solicitor!

17/06/2011 - Primary Schools to be Forced to Become Academies Under Government Proposals
The latest Government plans regarding the conversion of primary schools to academies have prompted strong reactions, both positive and negative. Education Secretary Michael Gove recently announced that poorly performing state primary and secondary schools in England are to be forced into becoming academies, in a bid to improve the current poor standards being found in many schools across the country.

14/06/2011 - New Trainee Joins the Team
Lanyon Bowdler is delighted to welcome new trainee solicitor, Eleanor Rowlands to the team. Eleanor, who commenced her training contract in March 2011, is currently working in the clinical negligence department at the firm’s office in Shrewsbury.

10/06/2011 - Important Changes to Car Insurance Laws
Shropshire and Hereford residents need to be aware of a new car insurance rule which has recently come into force reports Stephen Scully, Lanyon Bowdler solicitor and motoring law expert.

08/06/2011 - Farmers Urged to be Vigilant Over Seasonal Worker Recruitment
Earlier this year farming saw the successful legal challenge in the Court of Appeal of a case regarding the use of polytunnels. Now farmers across the country have received news on another topic - HM Revenue & Customs is doubling the number of officers who investigate labour providers, to ensure that they are paying their taxes.

03/06/2011 - Legal Transactions and Mental Capacity
In the recent case of Rudyard Kipling Thorpe (Litigation Friend of Leonie Leanthie Hill) v Fellowes Solicitors LLP [2011], the High Court departed from the usual approach taken regarding the mental capacity of elderly clients.

31/05/2011 - Legal Services Can Be Entertaining
Lanyon Bowdler recently proved legal services can be entertaining by holding an early summer drinks evening at the Ludlow Food Centre.

24/05/2011 - Can Rural Businesses Survive without Cheques
It is thought to be around 350 years ago that the first cheque was ever written. Since that date, cheque usage has risen and fallen, reaching a peak at £2.4 billion in 1990 and falling steadily since. Now the fate of the cheque is under review.

17/05/2011 - Associates Appointed
Lanyon Bowdler has recently promoted nine of its solicitors to the position of associate.

10/05/2011 - Charity Golf Day Success
Oswestry Rotary Club recently held its first Charity Golf Day at Oswestry Golf Club sponsored by Lanyon Bowdler.

28/04/2011 - High Court Rejects Banks Claims on PPI Mis-selling
On 20 April, the High Court rejected claims made by the British Bankers’ Association (“the BBA”) against the Financial Services Authority (“the FSA”) and the Financial Ombudsman Service in relation to how payment protection insurance (“PPI”) should be sold.

28/04/2011 - Total Legal Care Employer Protection - A Unique Product
Employers and employees in Oswestry and The Marches are now able to take advantage of quality legal advice right on their doorsteps.

20/04/2011 - Businesses Warned Over Possibility of Backdated Energy Bills
Government energy watchdog Consumer Focus has issued a warning to small businesses about the possibility of unexpected energy bills from suppliers landing on their doormats. These bills could detail arrears owed as a result of years of undercharging.

15/04/2011 - Additional Legal Services Available from the Oswestry Office
Since the merger between LG Solicitors and Lanyon Bowdler, which took place in May 2010, people, businesses and the farming & growing community in Oswestry and The Marches are benefiting from a wider range of legal services, available right on their doorsteps.

08/04/2011 - Enhancements to the Family Department in Oswestry
Lanyon Bowdler, particularly those based at the firm’s former LG Solicitors office in Oswestry, recently said goodbye to a much valued member of the family law team.

31/03/2011 - Passenger Wins over One Million in Accident Damages
A passenger who suffered serious head injuries in a car accident has been awarded more than £1 million in damages.

24/03/2011 - New Scheme to Assist First Time Buyers
The Government has today announced an assisted deposit scheme available for first time buyers with a household income of less than £60,000 who are looking to purchase a newly built home.

16/03/2011 - New Town and Country Planning Department
Lanyon Bowdler are pleased to promote a new department within the firm. Rebecca Whittaker, a fully qualified solicitor, is now able to offer private individuals, business clients and landowners legal advice in relation to Town & Country Planning matters.

04/03/2011 - Revised Employment Equality Regulations 2011
Shropshire employers should be aware that a revised draft of the Employment Equality (Repeal of Retirement Age Provisions) Regulations 2011 has now been released following the concerns raised regarding the previous draft.

25/02/2011 - Employment Law and Pensions Seminars Across Shropshire and in Herefordshire
The Pension Act 2008 is due to come into force in 2012, and with this comes the legal duty upon employers to ensure that they enrol most employees into a pension scheme and contribute to their retirement. The countdown has already begun, but are employers ready for these compulsory pensions?

24/02/2011 - Guide to Buying or Selling the Issued Share Capital of a Company
This guide is intended to give an overview of the process for the purchase of shares in a Company

22/02/2011 - Default Retirement Age Rule is Abolished
Shropshire and Herefordshire businesses need to be aware that the rules relating to default retirement ages and compulsory retirement will cease to have effect from 1 October 2011.

16/02/2011 - Mediation - the Way Forward in Resolving Family Breakdown Issues
Mediation is a way of resolving issues which arise following the breakdown of a relationship, including where those involved have been married and are divorcing, or where a cohabitation relationship has broken down (including a same sex relationship).

10/02/2011 - Kay Kelly Appointed to Law Society Clinical Negligence Panel
Associate solicitor Kay Kelly has been awarded a place on the Law Society Clinical Negligence Panel. Kay, a solicitor with over 20 years post qualification experience, now joins Lanyon Bowdler partners Paula Nash and Neil Lorimer on the panel, further highlighting the growing reputation of the firm.

04/02/2011 - Eye Specialist Concerns
A recent BBC investigation has revealed that an eye specialist in Worcester, Mr Paul Chell Clinical Director of Ophthalmology at Kidderminster General Hospital voiced concerns in 2008 to the Chief Executive of the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, John Rostill about nurses making treatment decisions that “go beyond their training”. This followed the case of Claire Holmes a 24 year old from Worcestershire who was left virtually blind in one eye following two attendances at Kidderminster minor injuries unit in 2008

28/01/2011 - Failed Contraceptive Implant Results in Unwanted Pregnancies
According to recent media reports, over 550 women have become unexpectedly pregnant whilst using the contraceptive implant Implanon. In some cases, women have been successful in claiming compensation for the effects of an unwanted pregnancy.

28/01/2011 - Severndale Specialist School Garden Project
As a large local business, Lanyon Bowdler believes in supporting local charities in a variety of ways such as ‘dress down days’ and ‘charity cake bakes’. But last year the firm did something a bit different.

25/01/2011 - Management Team Directors Responsibilities

20/01/2011 - Agriculture Solicitor Ian Goodwin Joins Firm
Agriculture solicitor Ian Goodwin is welcomed by the firm as he joins the partnership at Lanyon Bowdler.

13/01/2011 - Out of Hours Care Gives Rise to Concern
Almost one year following the death of David Gray who died following treatment from an out of hours locum GP, Dr Daniel Ubani, concerns are being raised afresh about the standard of out of hours healthcare offered to the public

11/01/2011 - HMRC to Target Small and Medium Sized Enterprises in 2011
HM Revenue and Customs have such serious concerns over the quality of record keeping by small and medium sized enterprises that they are planning a programme of ‘Business Record Checks’ (“BRCs”) to commence in 2011.

10/01/2011 - Pothole Risk After Big Freeze
Road users and pedestrians across Shropshire are still negotiating giant potholes in the roads and pavements after the recent Big Freeze.

04/01/2011 - Charity Fundraising Challenge
The snow and ice may have caused quite a few problems recently but it hasn’t stopped two fitness fanatics from Lanyon Bowdler getting out there and training in their bid to raise money for charity.

16/12/2010 - New Year Debt Threat
According to a survey conducted by the national charity, Citizens Advice, almost a fifth of the population (18%) don't know what VAT stands for, or understand how the 2011 January rate change will affect their budget for living.

01/12/2010 - Lanyon Bowdler Expands into Hereford
Shropshire’s largest law firm, Lanyon Bowdler is looking forward to the prospect of consolidating its position in the region, with the acquisition of Hereford solicitors Lewis & Co. Partner Peter Lewis heads the office, conveniently situated on King Street in the heart of the city. The legal services on offer are being expanded to include agricultural expertise, complementing the firm’s position as the NFU’s panel solicitors.

30/11/2010 - Falling Christmas Tree Injures British Tourist
An Essex man has been awarded £35,000 compensation after being seriously injured by a falling Christmas tree.

19/11/2010 - Expansion of Clinical Negligence Team
Lanyon Bowdler has continued the expansion of its Clinical Negligence Department with the addition of senior solicitor, Lucy Small, who joins the team based at the Ludlow office.

16/11/2010 - Shared Housing Schemes Underused
The Halifax Building Society has revealed how first time buyers could be missing an opportunity to get onto the property ladder.

02/11/2010 - Construction Companies Fined over Death
Two companies have been sentenced and fined following the death of a construction worker in Accrington.

25/10/2010 - Environmental Initiatives Result in Highly Commended at Law Society Excellence Awards
The Law Society’s annual Excellence Awards were recently held in London, and Shropshire law firm Lanyon Bowdler were once again recognised for their commitment to the environment, when they were awarded Highly Commended in the Legal Sector Alliance Award for Excellence in Environmental Responsibility.

22/10/2010 - Pre-nuptial Agreements Become Binding
This week has seen the Supreme Court rule in favour of one of Europe’s richest women, in a landmark case that finally sees pre-nuptial agreements being enforced in this country.

14/10/2010 - Shropshire Man Awarded 1.9million Following Grenoble Coach Crash
A Shropshire man has been awarded compensation when the High Court sitting in London yesterday approved a £1.9m settlement. Lanyon Bowdler's Catastrophic Injury Specialist Neil Lorimer said: “It has been carefully calculated to meet Mr Bishop’s extensive needs now and for the rest of his life. The fund will be held and managed by the Court of Protection and will be used to meet those needs. Part of the award also replaces his extensive loss of income following early retirement.”

11/10/2010 - Parents Seek Damages Over Forceps Misuse
A distraught Lincolnshire couple have launched a claim for compensation against a northern hospital after their son was left blind in one eye following the ‘misuse’ of forceps.

05/10/2010 - British Seaside Towns Bearing the Brunt of Insolvencies
Coastal towns saw the highest level of insolvencies in 2009 for the second year in a row, research indicated.

27/09/2010 - Passenger Sues London Underground After Tube Injury
A female traveller who was hospitalised after being struck by train debris is suing London Underground for personal injury compensation.

21/09/2010 - Lanyon Bowdler Shortlisted - Law Society Award for Environmental Responsibility
Lanyon Bowdler have been shortlisted in the Law Society's Excellence Award for Environmental Responsibility.

13/09/2010 - Asbestos Fine Highlights Public Disquiet
A company managing Ministry of Defence property has been fined £33,000 after allowing staff to come into contact with asbestos, despite warnings.

10/09/2010 - 2010 Edition of the Legal 500 Ranks Lanyon Bowdler in 12 Categories
2010 continues to be a year of achievement at Lanyon Bowdler after receiving numerous recommendations by the leading Legal Sector Directory. The firm has been recommended by the UK Legal 500 in 12 areas of work, the most for any practice based solely in the county.

07/09/2010 - Environmental Regulations Pushing Welsh Property Costs
Latest environmental guidelines relevant to all new-build properties in Wales could increase the price of development by as much as 10%, research has claimed.

01/09/2010 - Rental Surge Continues
Britain’s letting market has continued its post-recession rebuilding after an increase in tenant demand and shortage of properties drove rental prices skywards.

23/08/2010 - International Couples to Pick Divorce Laws
Couples of differing nationalities living within the European Union could be given the right to decide which divorce laws are applicable during separations.

17/08/2010 - One in 10 Tourists Filing Holiday Complaints
British holidaymakers are feeling increasingly let down by the standards of their trips and are launching complaints in record numbers, a new survey suggests.

16/08/2010 - Lanyon Bowdler Collect Trophy for Best Outdoor Garden at Shrewsbury Flower Show
There were whoops of joy at Headway Shropshire on Oxon Business Park and at all the Lanyon Bowdler offices, when it was announced that the All-Inclusive Garden, entered into the 123rd Shrewsbury Flower Show, had won the Mike Hough Memorial Trophy for the Best Outdoor Garden, together with one of the Shropshire Horticultural Society’s Gold Medals.

10/08/2010 - Bad Driving Habits Reduce Road Safety
The majority of Britain’s motorists are ‘irresponsible’ behind the wheel and greatly increasing the risk of fatal accidents, research has found.

02/08/2010 - Ageism Wall Impeding Mature Workers
Elderly employees are finding it increasingly difficult to locate new employment due to an “invisible wall” of ageism currently plaguing the country’s employment sector, leading charity Age UK has warned.

28/07/2010 - Purchase of Evacuation Chair for Headway Shropshire
Lanyon Bowdler were delighted to have been able to contribute to the recent purchase of a new evacuation chair for local charity, Headway Shropshire.

28/07/2010 - Oswestry Merger Drinks Reception
As many now know Lanyon Bowdler and LG Solicitors formally merged on 1 May 2010, resulting in the creation of Shropshire’s largest law firm.

19/07/2010 - Shropshire Cancer Care Services
It is an astonishing fact, but every two minutes someone else in the UK is diagnosed with cancer. This is a disease most of us will be affected by in some way, either personally, or as a result of a loved one being diagnosed.

13/07/2010 - Record Level of Employees Launching Tribunal Claims
The number of claims accepted by Employment Tribunals around Britain has rocketed by 56% in the past year, according to figures released by the Tribunal Service.

02/07/2010 - All Time Low in Workplace Deaths
Businesses around the country are being congratulated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after new figures show workplace deaths have reached a record low.

28/06/2010 - Poor Standards of Artificial Nutrition for Sick Babies and Adults
A recent enquiry has highlighted that there are major deficiencies in the way that hospitals provide artificial nutrition to sick babies and adults.

21/06/2010 - Coalition to Improve Legal Rights for Grandparents
Under the country’s new government, grandparents are expected to receive increased rights to see their grandchildren when parental couples split, as Nick Clegg prioritises “strong, stable and loving families” in Britain.

18/06/2010 - Companies could be Breaching Data Protection Laws

15/06/2010 - Take a Break Insist Health Professionals
A recent report has found that many employees are foregoing lunch breaks and putting their health at risk.

10/06/2010 - Toxic Sofa Victims Win Compensation
In what is thought to be the largest consumer class action in English legal history, more than 1,500 customers who suffered chemical burns and allergic reactions after buying ‘toxic sofas’ are to share in a £20 million compensation settlement.

08/06/2010 - Gateshead Joiner Secures Mesothelioma Compensation
A 64-year-old Gateshead man whose life will be cut short by deadly lung disease mesothelioma has successfully claimed for compensation against former employers.

01/06/2010 - Employers Ignoring Paternity Rights
The majority of employers around the UK are failing to implement government enforced paternity rights, evidence from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has shown.

24/05/2010 - Legal Danger Over Wi-Fi Networks
Thousands of homes and businesses around the UK could face legal action if they fail to secure their Wi-Fi networks properly, a Sheffield University professor has warned.

20/05/2010 - HIPs Are Suspended
On 20 May it was announced that the Government proposes to bring in legislation to remove the requirement for a Home Information Pack (HIP) before putting a house on the market. From 21 May the need for a pack has been suspended, and houses can be marketed immediately.

17/05/2010 - Repossessions Most Common within UK Cities
More properties are being repossessed in UK city centres than elsewhere in the country, with London the country’s biggest hotspot for court action, according to research from leading estate agents.

10/05/2010 - Compensation for Hearing Loss
Exposure to high noise levels can cause permanent hearing loss or tinnitus.

07/05/2010 - Maclaren Compensation for Injured Buggy Babies
Besmirched buggy manufacturer Maclaren has agreed to compensate more than 40 UK children whose fingers were seriously injured by pushchairs’ hinges.

07/05/2010 - Co-Op Fire Safety Failures Result in Hefty Fine
The Co-operative Group (Co-op), one of the UK’s largest retailers, has been fined £210,000 after pleading guilty to six breaches of fire safety legislation at Southampton Crown Court.

04/05/2010 - Business Scared of a Hung Parliament Backlash
With this week’s election looking increasingly destined to create a hung Parliament, British businesses are becoming worried about the potential impact to the economy and their revenue streams, research by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has found.

28/04/2010 - Commercial Property Sales to Boom in 2010
Commercial property investors have grown tired of credit crunching and look set to bounce back in 2010, as transactions across Europe, the Middle East and Africa are predicted to rise by 30%, new research has revealed.

23/04/2010 - Merger Creates Largest Law Firm in Shropshire
The merger between two of Shropshire’s longest established law firms has resulted in the creation of the county’s largest solicitors practice. Lanyon Bowdler and LG Solicitors, previously known as Longueville Gittins, formally merge on 1 May 2010. The new firm – a limited liability partnership, will trade as Lanyon Bowdler.

19/04/2010 - Compensation Cloudy for Ash Affected Passengers
As the nation’s airways remain empty, millions of passengers whose flights have been affected by an Icelandic volcano may struggle to gain compensation, experts have warned.

12/04/2010 - Sharp Rise in Pre-Inheritance Gifts
Members of the public are avoiding punitive inheritance tax by bequeathing portions of their estates before death, as research shows that almost half claim to have received pre-inheritances gifts.

08/04/2010 - Settlement for Blood Poisoning Tragedy
The family of a Staffordshire woman who died after a GP failed to diagnose that she had blood poisoning has received an out-of-court settlement.

07/04/2010 - Widow Wins Asbestos Related Claim
The widow of a factory worker has won an interim settlement of £50,000 after her husband died of an asbestos-related disease.

06/04/2010 - Longevity of Marriage Edges Past Cohabiting
Married couples are more likely to share a future together when compared to those cohabiting, official figures have revealed.

30/03/2010 - Winners at the Legal Awards 2010
It was a triumphant evening, at the recent Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards 2010, for Shropshire’s Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors, when they scored a massive away victory by picking up the award for Law Firm of the Year (5 – 15 partners).

22/03/2010 - Assured Shorthold Tenancy Threshold to Rise
The government has announced through the National Landlords Association (NLA) that the threshold for Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will rise from £25,000 to £100,000 and will be applied retrospectively from 1 October.

19/03/2010 - George Cross for Staff Sergeant Hughes
Following the announcement that local soldier Staff Sergeant Kim Hughes is to receive the George Cross for his outstandingly selfless act of bravery in Afghanistan, local law firm Lanyon Bowdler is immensely proud to add its own congratulations at a more personal level, as Staff Sergeant Hughes’ mother, Mrs Fran Trask, is employed by the firm as a Legal Secretary based at the Telford offices.

15/03/2010 - Consumers Unaware of Internet Rights
Despite becoming the largest European contingent of online shoppers, the majority of British consumers are unaware of their rights when it comes to e-commerce, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) has found.

12/03/2010 - Employers Warned Over Online Recruitment Research
New concerns have been raised over employers’ use of social networking websites to look up potential employees when they apply for a position at a company.

10/03/2010 - Grandparents Committed to Caring for Grandchildren
Grandparents are risking financial hardship by taking time out of work to provide free childcare for their grandchildren, a new survey has claimed.

01/03/2010 - Schools Should Learn Asbestos Lessons
Schools around the country are routinely failing to safeguard against the dangers of asbestos exposure, according to a new report.

27/02/2010 - HSE Make Recommendations for the Vulnerable in Care Homes
We would all like to think that if we or someone we know had to go in to care, the care providers would be well aware of the risks to vulnerable people involving hot surfaces and water temperatures.

22/02/2010 - Lanyon Bowdler Short-Listed for Birmingham Law Society Awards
It’s double-delight at Lanyon Bowdler, having learnt that both the firm and head of the personal injury team, Neil Lorimer, have been short-listed for awards by the Birmingham Law Society.

18/02/2010 - Patient Safety Alert
A recent Freedom of Information request and subsequent report by the charity Action Against Medical Accidents (AvMA) has brought to light significant NHS failure to implement patient safety alerts, and provides evidence that hospitals in England are not taking patient safety seriously.

15/02/2010 - Corporate Manslaughter Sentencing Finalised
Following review by the Sentencing Guidelines Council (SGC), the penalties for corporate manslaughter prosecutions have been finalised, meaning companies could be fined millions of pounds for staff deaths.

10/02/2010 - Negligent Landlord Fined Over Gas Safety
An Oxfordshire landlord has been prosecuted and fined more than £10,000 after failing to ensure gas appliances in his property were safe and fit for purpose.

05/02/2010 - Football Transmission 'kicks' Pub Landlords into Court
Two pub licensees have been tried and convicted of breaching copyright laws and fined for their efforts.

01/02/2010 - Wrong Tax Codes Could Cost Thousands
Countless employees could see their tax payments rocket over the next year as the introduction of a new computer system has left many with the wrong tax code, one group has warned.

29/01/2010 - Challenges of Parental Life
British society has undergone extensive changes in recent years, as the onset of the recession has mutated the concept of home life and average family structures.

25/01/2010 - Boundary Dispute
Two neighbours that have squabbled over six-foot of front garden for years have finally had their case settled by the Court of Appeal, leaving one with a £160,000 legal bill.

19/01/2010 - Parents to Sue Pushchair Maker
Pushchair manufacturer Maclaren is being sued by a group of 15 families who claim their children have been injured by faulty products.

18/01/2010 - Firework Factory Owner Convicted of Manslaughter
A firework factory owner has been convicted of manslaughter following an explosion that claimed the lives of two firefighters.

11/01/2010 - Local Businesses Affected by Gas Explosion
The gas explosion in the centre of Shrewsbury may leave businesses feeling repercussions for some time.

08/01/2010 - New Regulations for Service Providers
Business owners need to take note of new laws which came into force on 28 December 2009.

05/01/2010 - Redundancy changes set for April 2010
Redundancy payment calculations for civil service workers will be overhauled in the Spring of next year, as Cabinet Office Minister, Tessa Jowell, claims the current system is “inappropriate for the modern civil service”.

04/01/2010 - Divorce Rates Rise in January
January 2010 is likely to once again be a busy month for divorce lawyers. The early part of January is traditionally when feuding couples finally decide to call it a day and instruct their solicitor to start divorce proceedings.

31/12/2009 - Get Ready for Compulsory Pensions
The Pensions Act 2008 contains provisions which will make it compulsory (from 2012 for larger employers and 2015 for smaller employers) for an employer to enrol qualifying workers aged between 22 and the state pension age who earn more than a de minimus amount (currently set at £5,035 per annum) into a pension scheme and to make contributions to the scheme.

30/12/2009 - Planning Permission - Don't Panic
Builders and homeowners who wish to delay the start of building projects in these troubled times can breathe more easily now that the time limits for extensions to planning permissions have been lengthened.

23/12/2009 - Christmas Survival Tips
Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. We all know how stressful it can be at this time of the year so we have put together three top tips for helping survive Christmas.

22/12/2009 - Cyclist Claims £60,000 After Collision
A Cheshire cyclist has been awarded £60,000 in compensation after being hit by a negligent driver who failed to spot a red light.

22/12/2009 - Profits Back to Letting Landlords
The re-emergence of the buy-to-let market has brought welcome profits back in to the hands of landlords struggling to recuperate the losses of last year, new figures have suggested.

21/12/2009 - 20 mph Limits Increase
UK motorists will have to watch their dials more carefully when in built up areas as the government announces new plans to increase the prevalence of 20mph speed limits.

18/12/2009 - Conveyancing in your Local Area
When considering buying a property in a city centre, legal fees can often become a large part of your budget. It’s worth noting that you can be paying a premium for using a city firm. City centre practices have heavy overheads and consequently their conveyancing charges can be considerably more than those charged by a more rural firm.

15/12/2009 - ICO Advice on Data Protection
The Information Commissioners Officer (ICO) has provided businesses collecting personal data with draft guidelines to help protect against breaches of the Data Protection Act.

07/12/2009 - Asthma Sufferer Receives £20,000
A factory worker who developed asthma soon after being exposed to dangerous fumes has won £20,000 in compensation.

04/12/2009 - Coach Crash Victims Win Right to Damages
Twenty-four British tourists who were involved in a coach crash while on holiday in Bulgaria have won a court battle against the tour operator that provided their package holiday.

03/12/2009 - Drink Driving
It's almost that time again; when after a hard year of working, people get to let their hair down at the works' Christmas party. It’s also the time of year when the police start their drink drive awareness campaigns and start a clampdown on motorists. Through increased awareness of the risks and the consequences of drink driving, most people are sensible enough not to risk driving the same evening they have been drinking. Unfortunately, with the alcohol flowing freely at Christmas parties and after work get-togethers, a lot of people fail to realise they could still be over the legal drink drive limit the following morning.

01/12/2009 - Christmas Light Danger
Health and Safety specialist Jo Griffiths from Lanyon Bowdler has today issued a warning for people to take care when they are using Christmas tree lights. This follows a recent report by the European Commission which found that 1 in 3 sets of Christmas lights present a direct risk of fire or electrical shocks.

30/11/2009 - Midlands Business Awards 2009 - Winners
The partners and staff of leading Shropshire law firm, Lanyon Bowdler are delighted to be able to show off their latest accolade! At The Midlands Business Awards, held recently in the newly refurbished Holte Suite at Villa Park, the firm picked up the 2009 Training Award. With over ten awards being presented during the course of the evening, more than 350 representatives, from leading businesses throughout the Midlands, enjoyed the glamorous black tie event which included a three course dinner and entertainment.

26/11/2009 - Bank Charges
One of the first decisions of the new Supreme Court (which last month replaced the House of Lords as the highest court in the land) will be a disappointment to many bank customers who suffered high levels of charges after they exceeded agreed overdraft limits.

24/11/2009 - Data Breach Fines to Increase
UK Companies found guilty of data protection breaches could be fined up to £500,000 under new government plans.

20/11/2009 - Do Something Different
Do something different is this years Children in Need theme and in line with this Lanyon Bowdler has thrown out the dark suits and ties and replaced these with jeans and casual clothes.

16/11/2009 - Asbestos Figures Reveal Decades of Poor Practice
Asbestos-related disease, mesothelioma, has claimed more than 35,000 lives in the past 30 years, and research shows death rates are increasing, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

11/11/2009 - Neil Lorimer wins Personal Injury Award
Everyone is celebrating at leading Shropshire law firm Lanyon Bowdler after learning that Neil Lorimer, partner and head of the Personal Injury team, successfully won the Eclipse Proclaim Personal Injury Lawyer of the Year (Claimant) Award.

10/11/2009 - Cycle deaths and serious injuries up nearly 20%
The number of cyclists killed or seriously injured on UK roads this spring has soared, according to Government figures.

02/11/2009 - Bonfire Night
Remember, remember, the 5th November? Well if companies fail to follow guidelines for their annual company firework display it may well be remembered for all the wrong reasons. Shropshire solicitors Lanyon Bowdler are warning firms to make sure this year’s display is remembered for all the right reasons.

30/10/2009 - Un-wed to get marriage rights upon death
Unmarried couples, who live together for two years, will be entitled to the same intestate rights as married couples, under new proposals from government law advisers.

22/10/2009 - NHS Errors Highlighted by APIL
The Clinical Negligence Department at Shropshire Law firm Lanyon Bowdler have revealed some of the recent NHS errors, highlighted at the recent APIL clinical negligence conference.

20/10/2009 - HSE prosecute water filtration company
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is urging companies to ensure that equipment used is “fit for purpose”, and employee protection remains high on company agendas, after a 25-year-old contractor suffered a crushed pelvis.

19/10/2009 - Surviving the Recession
Advice for modern day SMEs struggling to stay secure in the current financial climate.

12/10/2009 - Pop Star Wins £450,000 for Botched Cosmetic Surgery
A former contestant on Celebrity Big Brother and frontman of pop group Dead or Alive has won damages of £450,000 after a cosmetic surgeon who treated his lips admitted negligence.

08/10/2009 - Toxic Sofa Victim Wins Four-Figure Payout
A man who suffered chemical burns after sitting on a new leather sofa has received a four-figure sum in compensation.

05/10/2009 - Weekly Pay
The increase in the maximum amount of a ‘week’s pay’ on 1 October 2009 from £350.00 to £380.00 will see employers paying out more when making redundancies, says Jenny Gibson.

02/10/2009 - Asbestos
Over recent years there has been a huge growth in asbestos claims following the widespread exposure to asbestos during the 1950’s and 1960’s. Many people, who have been exposed to asbestos early in their working life, are only just recognising symptoms. According to the Health and Safety Executive, asbestos is the single greatest cause of work-related deaths in the UK, and estimates around 4,000 people a year die from asbestos-related disease. In Shropshire alone 1 person dies every 12 weeks from Mesothelioma, which is a form of asbestosis.

29/09/2009 - DPP Guidance on Assisted Suicide
Following the recent decision of the House of Lords, granting Debbie Purdy, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, the right to clarification from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on the circumstances in which a relative of someone who wishes to end their own life will be prosecuted under the Suicide Act 1961 if they travel with the person wishing to die to a country where assisted suicide is legal, the DPP has now issued an interim policy statement on the approach that will be taken.

28/09/2009 - Neil Lorimer Shortlisted for PI Lawyer of the Year
It’s good news again for leading Shropshire law firm Lanyon Bowdler, as they celebrate the fact that Neil Lorimer, partner and head of the Personal Injury team has been short listed for the Eclipse Proclaim Personal Injury Lawyer of the Year Award.

25/09/2009 - HMRC and Valuations
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have recently hosted some conferences for professional practitioners about Inheritance Tax (IHT). It seems that one of practitioners’ main concerns has been the charge to IHT on properties, the values of which may have fallen significantly since the owner died.

24/09/2009 - Sickness and Annual Leave
The European Court of Justice has held, in the case of Pereda v Madrid Movilidad, that if a worker is sick during a period of annual leave, he is entitled to take the affected period of leave at another time, if he would not otherwise have had (free of sickness) the minimum period of annual leave provided for by the Working Time Directive (“the Directive”) – including, if necessary, if this means taking the relevant number of days’ holiday during the next leave year.

16/09/2009 - Legal 500
Once again leading local law firm Lanyon Bowdler are celebrating after receiving numerous recommendations by the leading Legal Sector Directory. The firm has been recommended by the UK Legal 500 in 11 areas of work, the highest amount of recommendations received by a entirely Shropshire based practice this year. See http://www.legal500.com/books/l500

09/09/2009 - Credit card users get EU support on overcharging
New legislation may give consumers the right to a refund on excessive charges incurred whilst abroad.

07/09/2009 - Young Footballer Bullied by Coaches Wins £40,000
A young man has received £40,000 in compensation after he was mentally and physically bullied by two football coaches.

28/08/2009 - EU investigation into patent and trade mark systems
The European Commission has opened a study into the quality of patents in the European Union. The study will also focus on the concept of a Community Patent, and its effects on the future of EU patent systems.

27/08/2009 - Payouts for Pupils' Accidents Reach £2.8 Million
A survey of local councils has revealed that almost £3 million was paid out in compensation to children hurt in accidents at school in the year 2008-2009. This figure represents an increase of £1 million on the previous year.

17/08/2009 - Avoid elderly snatch by state

11/08/2009 - Burwarton Show 2009
Leading Shropshire law firm, Lanyon Bowdler offered families the chance to win a fun day out at the recent Burwarton Show. On a beautiful sunny day around 200 people entered the competition, with the lucky prize winners being announced towards the end of the day.

10/08/2009 - Charity 10K and Race for Life
July may have been the wettest for 50 years but that hasn’t stopped fitness fanatics, from local law firm Lanyon Bowdler, getting out there and raising more money for charity.

07/08/2009 - Woman Trampled by Cows Wins Compensation
A woman left brain damaged after being trampled by cows whilst out walking her dog along a public footpath has won damages from the farmer.

04/08/2009 - Burwarton Show - 6 August
Come and meet our friendly team at Burwarton Show on Thursday 6 August. We will be right by the entrance, at trade stand number 146.

03/08/2009 - What Makes a Director
A tax case involving a husband and wife who paid themselves millions of pounds in dividends from 42 insolvent companies without making the necessary provisions for corporation tax has recently been heard by the Court of Appeal.

27/07/2009 - Ruth Finney Conquers the Three Peaks
Ruth Finney, solicitor in our commercial & corporate law team is always up for a challenge and so when her two sisters suggested to her and her fearless fiancé that they attempt to complete the Three Peaks Challenge on 19 July, she immediately said yes. They would be raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support by climbing the three highest mountain peaks in the UK, (Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis) in 24 hours and that included driving between each peak! It all sounded quite daunting and a demanding challenge even for the physically fit.

24/07/2009 - Cool off Period for Divorcing Couples
A report has suggested that married couples considering a divorce should be forced to "cool off" for three months.

17/07/2009 - Holiday Makers Urged to Avoid Quad Bike Danger
As holidaymakers start jetting off to foreign shores for a summer break, a Nottingham-based campaigning group has urged them to think twice before hiring quad bikes on foreign soil.

15/07/2009 - New Minimum Wage Rates Announced
The Government has announced new National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates that will apply from 1 October 2009.

13/07/2009 - Importance of Wills
If someone dies without making a valid will, they are said to have died intestate. Should this situation arise, the estate and possessions of the deceased person will be divided according to rules set out in the Administration of Estates Act 1925.

07/07/2009 - Winners of Shropshire Business Award
Staff and partners of Shropshire based solicitors Lanyon Bowdler are celebrating after scooping Best Green Business at the 2009 Shropshire Business Awards.

07/07/2009 - Going Green
‘Green Lawyers helping to Save Tomorrow’, was the slogan that won the Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors’ internal Going Green competition.

03/07/2009 - Family Relieved at Prison Sentence
This statement is made by Gayle Kinsey of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors on behalf of Amanda Somers and her family who are relieved that Mr Paul Brittain has today been sentenced to 3 years and 4 months imprisonment having been convicted of death by dangerous driving. However, they take no comfort from the sentence which does not in any way make up for the loss of Ben’s life.

01/07/2009 - National Recycling Week
Shropshire solicitors Lanyon Bowdler marked National Recycling Week in style. In keeping with their Silver Green Achievers status they asked partners and staff to bring in any unusable clothes that were lingering in the bottom of their wardrobes, these clothes were then recycled.

29/06/2009 - Child Safety Week
Parents are today being warned to be extra vigilant about where they store potentially harmful products which appear to have childproof caps.

25/06/2009 - Accidents Abroad
Gayle Kinsey, personal injury solicitor with local law firm Lanyon Bowdler gives some useful advice for those of you about to take that well earned break abroad.

24/06/2009 - Jo Griffiths Becomes Health and Safety Consultant
Jo Griffiths, head of the criminal team in Telford and specialist Health & Safety consultant, has taken the tough decision to leave the Lanyon Bowdler partnership. Speaking about her recent decision Jo said “I have a young family who need more of my time; I personally feel more comfortable leaving the partnership for the time being, rather than trying to juggle too many commitments at once”.

19/06/2009 - Pride of Shropshire
Lanyon Bowdler were thrilled to attend the Pride of Shropshire awards as sponsors of the Courage Award. They had the opportunity to present the Courage Award to the winners of that category who were Adam Edwards and Christopher Morris. They led elderly residents to safety following a suspected arson attack.

18/06/2009 - National Recycling Week
National Recycling Week is on 22 - 28 June and we will be marking this occassion in style!

16/06/2009 - Holiday Pay
The House of Lords has handed down an important decision relating to holiday pay, which is bad news for employers, says Jenny Gibson of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors.

12/06/2009 - Winner of LawCareers.Net 2009 Award
Lanyon Bowdler have been awarded the Best Recruiter – Small Firm at the sixth annual LawCareers.Net Training & Recruitment Awards held in London. The firm also won this award in 2004 and were nominated in 2007 and 2008.

10/06/2009 - Shropshire Business Awards 2009
We have been short listed for best green business at the 2009 Shropshire Business Awards.

09/06/2009 - Boy Brain Damaged at Rugby Club Party Wins 4.6 Million
A boy who suffered brain damage after falling off a ride at an end of season party at a rugby club has won £4.6 million in compensation.

08/06/2009 - Woman Given Antibiotic Overdose Awarded Compensation
An assistant social worker from Stockton-on-Tees has been awarded £400,000 compensation after she was given more than the recommended dose of antibiotics. The error has resulted in permanent damage to her inner ear.

02/06/2009 - Work Place Stress
Stress levels are soaring because of the recession, increasing the risk of accidents at work, according to a new report.

01/06/2009 - Road Side Drug Testing
Plans are underway to make driving under the influence of any illegal substance an offence.

27/05/2009 - Flexible Working Arrangements
From 6 April 2009, the statutory right to request flexible working arrangements is extended to parents of children aged 16 and under. Employees with caring responsibilities for children aged up to 6 (18 and under where the child is disabled) and carers of adults already have this right.

26/05/2009 - Health and Safety VDU use
More and more workers are spending a large part of their day looking at a computer screen. The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 specifically deal with the health and safety issues associated with working with VDUs.

22/05/2009 - Compensation for Wrist Broken on Cruise
A woman who broke her wrist on the second day of a cruise holiday has won over £10,000 in compensation for her injury.

20/05/2009 - How to maximise the value in your business
A breakfast seminar jointly hosted by new Shropshire independent corporate finance firm Amalgam Corporate Finance, Whittingham Riddell Charted Accountants and Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors was successfully held at Whittingham Riddell’s Shrewsbury offices. The seminar, which focussed on “preparing your business for the future” and enhancing future value, offered advice on planning a business for sale or acquisition.

19/05/2009 - Risk Minimisation Strategies
A recent decision has underlined that it is important for employers to operate risk minimisation strategies when mechanical handling equipment is being used: the mere assessment of potential risks is not enough. If an employee is injured, the burden is on the employer to prove that it has taken appropriate steps to reduce the risk to the lowest practicable level when facing a manual handling injury claim.

18/05/2009 - Expense claims
In light of the publicity and anger over MPs' expenses this issue has now been placed firmly under the spotlight. Such things as inflating expense claims by adding a few extra miles, or even taking property such as toilet rolls, bin bags and even tools are seen by some as a perk of the job. Although these seem trivial in light of the extortionate claims that MP’s have been making deliberately inflating expenses claims or taking property belonging to employers constitutes theft, whilst over claiming expenses by way of a genuine oversight is seen a performance issue.

13/05/2009 - Payout for faulty football boots
A Sunday league footballer who was seriously injured because of faulty football boots has won a four-figure payout.

07/05/2009 - Real People Real Compensation
Peal People, Real Compensation is our new campaign and the star of this is Matty Watton. He is a real life example of great courage and determination.

27/04/2009 - LB on Twitter
A firm that really likes to differentiate itself from its competitors has to be Shropshire’s leading law firm Lanyon Bowdler, who have been tweeting away for a few weeks now!

24/04/2009 - Silver Green Achievers
A Shropshire firm of solicitors has become the latest business prepared to demonstrate its green credentials to suppliers and customers, seeking such organisations.

13/04/2009 - Employment Law Seminar - Ludlow
In today's climate, many employers are looking to cut costs without necessarily making redundancies. Local law firm Lanyon Bowdler are taking their renowned Employment Law Network Seminar to Ludlow, for the benefit of the local businesses in South Shropshire and Herefordshire. John Merry, partner and department head, will be offering valuable advice on dealing with the difficulties of short-time working and redundancies. In addition, in house Health & Safety Consultant, Jo Griffiths will provide an update on the consequences of non-compliance with the new Health & Safety Act 2008.

06/04/2009 - Employment Law Changes
Changes to employment law and practice led by the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform are normally implemented in either April of October. The reason for this is to make life easier for employers, who must ensure that their policies and procedures comply by the implementation dates – or risk significant penalties.

02/04/2009 - Important changes to debt recovery
Important changes in the way debt recovery matters are dealt with are due to come into force on 6 April 2009, by virtue of the 49th update of the Civil Procedure Rules.

23/03/2009 - Community Care and the Disabled
It is fast becoming apparent that Local Authorities are falling short of their responsibilities, by failing those with disabilities who require social housing.

04/03/2009 - Hazardous pavements
Shockingly a local newspaper reports that Telford has the most hazardous pavements in the West Midlands. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) states that treacherous pavements are potentially a deadly menace, especially during the recent cold snap, and is urging Local Authorities to repair broken and uneven pavements.

13/02/2009 - Great news for land owners
“Landowners throughout the country will be relieved to note the outcome of a recent tax appeal heard by the High Court,” says Andrew Evans of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors.

02/02/2009 - Cycle helmet warning
“The High Court in London has held that a cyclist who does not wear a helmet could have their compensation reduced in the event of an accident caused by the fault of another” said Neil Lorimer Head of the Personal Injury Department at Shropshire law firm Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors.

02/02/2009 - Recession Cost Cutting Tips
The cost of fuel is still considerably higher than it was just a couple of years ago despite recent falls in prices. It’s worth shopping around between different providers as this can result in some decent savings..

28/01/2009 - Debt advice
If you are in debt don’t panic! Do something about it as soon as possible because the problems will not just go away. Don’t ignore calls or letters from your creditors, be sure to seek help as soon as you can. You will probably find if you are either on a low wage or in receipt of state benefits, you are likely to qualify for free help to deal with your debts under the Legal Aid Scheme.

27/01/2009 - Employment Law Seminar
Following the success of previous seminars local Solicitors Lanyon Bowdler are holding their next Employment Law Networking event on Thursday 5 February at the International Centre, Telford.

27/01/2009 - Short time working
In today's climate, many employers are looking to cut costs without actually making redundancies. A short-term solution many companies are considering is the introduction of short-time working. However, whilst this can be an effective way to make savings without reducing headcount, the implementation of short-time working is not without its difficulties.

08/01/2009 - Debt advice
The effects of the credit crunch are lasting much longer than some had thought and it seems that the end is still nowhere in sight. “Piles of unopened envelopes, ignoring the phone, constant worry and sleepless nights - these are just some of the symptoms of debt denial” comments Gary Sans of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors.

06/01/2009 - Support for homeowners
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement that more support would be given to home owners struggling with mortgage arrears, the Department for Work and Pensions has announced that the new package of support under the Income Support for Mortgage Interest (ISMI) system is being brought into immediate effect. It had previously been scheduled to start in April 2009.

02/01/2009 - Health and Safety new legislation
As all business owners and senior managers will know, a busy work load and tight deadlines can make it very tempting to take short cuts, but with new legislation coming into effect in the New Year, one area not to be ignored, is health and safety.

23/12/2008 - Ex Cathedra
Once again Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors were proud to have been the main sponsors of Ex Cathedra, Christmas Music by Candlelight, which recently took place at St Chad’s Church, forming part of Shropshire Music Trust’s 25th Season.

19/12/2008 - Factory Workers Injured in Coach Crash in Telford, Shropshire
A driver had to undergo emergency treatment after being cut from the wreckage of a coach which was carrying factory workers. The coach, which collided with a lorry on Telford’s Hortonwood Industrial Estate on Friday 12 December, left 16 people needing hospital attention.

09/12/2008 - Christmas card donations
As committed Green Achievers Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors have once again decided not to send Christmas cards within the offices, or to their outside contacts. Instead they will be carrying on with the LB tradition of donating money to their two nominated local charities, The Severn Hospice and Headway.

08/12/2008 - Tragic death of baby
A Telford mother who lost her son at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital has settled her case. A negotiated settlement means Clare Russell will now receive compensation for the disastrous events which occurred in November 2003.

08/12/2008 - Baby Death
A Telford mother who lost her son at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital has settled her case. A negotiated settlement means Clare Russell will now receive compensation for the disastrous events which occurred in November 2003.

05/12/2008 - Redundancy legal advice for employers soars
In the past two weeks there have been almost 30,000 job losses announced by British companies and, as the global economy continues on a downward spiral, the number of redundancies is expected to continue to rise.

04/12/2008 - Surviving the recession
The UK is now in its first recession in more than fifteen years. Many businesspeople have not previously had to cope with the practical implications of an economic downturn.

01/12/2008 - Green Achiever
Three local organisations are working together in order to stake a claim and place Shropshire on the map as a centre of environmental excellence.

21/10/2008 - Injured worker receives compensation
An abattoir worker, who nearly lost his left arm when he slipped and fell on the unguarded blades of a cutting tool, has settled his case. A negotiated settlement means Stephen Jones, 49 from Clun in South Shropshire will receive substantial damages having suffered life threatening injuries and, as a result of the accident which happened in February 2006, is now left disadvantaged on the open labour market.

20/10/2008 - HPI checks: how safe are they?
A recent court case has again highlighted the limitations of HPI checks. Although the system operated by HPI Limited for checking a used vehicle is not stolen, written off, or still subject to a finance agreement is incredibly useful, it is not foolproof, warns Brian Evans, of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors.

15/10/2008 - Ludlow opening party
Shropshire law firm Lanyon Bowdler recently celebrated as MP for the Ludlow Constituency Philip Dunne conducted the official opening of their brand new offices on the Ludlow Eco Park.

26/09/2008 - Dangers of club membership
A recent Court decision has highlighted the risks that members of unincorporated bodies, such as golf clubs, face simply because they are members, says Garry Richards of Lanyon Bowdler, Solicitors.

23/09/2008 - Excellence at Grosvenor House
For one local firm of solicitors it isn’t all doom and gloom in the property market. With a dedicated team of property experts located in Central Park, Telford, Lanyon Bowdler process a large volume of property transactions for the national customers of various lenders and agents as well as offering an efficient service to the residents of Telford and the surrounding area.

19/09/2008 - Legal 500 success
A Shropshire law firm is celebrating after yet again receiving numerous recommendations by the leading Legal Sector Directory. Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors have been recommended by the UK Legal 500 in 10 areas of work, the highest amount of recommendations received by a entirely Shropshire based practice this year. The firm has also been ranked 17th by size in the West Midlands area, which includes Birmingham.

11/09/2008 - Footballer awared Compensation
A former professional footballer has won at least £4.3 million in compensation after a tackle ended his promising career when he was just 18 years old.

04/09/2008 - Victim of Detox diet awared Compensation
A woman who suffered brain damage as a result of following a special detox diet has been awarded £810,000 in compensation.

22/08/2008 - Exam success at LB

21/08/2008 - Alton Coach Crash
One man has died and three others are critically injured after a horrific coach crash near Alton Towers theme park, in Staffordshire this week.

19/08/2008 - Milestones at the firm
Shropshire solicitors, Lanyon Bowdler are celebrating this summer, as a number of their staff members reached significant milestones at the firm.

18/08/2008 - Blooming lovely show
LB were proud to be sponsoring Shrewsbury Flower Show 2008 once again this year.

08/08/2008 - Burwarton Show a Success
A Shropshire solicitors firm were thrilled yesterday when hundreds of people attended a popular county show, despite miserable weather warnings.

04/08/2008 - Hereford hospital diagnosis blunder
A Hereford hospital has been involved in a huge diagnosis blunder, causing distress and heartache for many patients.

03/08/2008 - LB at Burwarton
Come and meet our friendly team at Burwarton Show on Thursday 7 August. We will be right by the entrance, at tradestand number 146.

02/08/2008 - Bouncy castle boy - judgement overturned
The Court of Appeal has overturned the High Court’s ruling that a boy who suffered brain damage after he was kicked in the head while playing on a bouncy castle should be awarded compensation that could have amounted to £1 million.

01/08/2008 - Farmers are warned this summer
The Health and Safety Executive have warned parents and farmers to be vigilant about the safety of children on farms.

23/07/2008 - Partners pedal on for charity
A team of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors and their family decided to get on their bikes, and raise some money for the Headway Cycle Challenge.

30/06/2008 - Dragon Boat Team
Shropshire solicitors Lanyon Bowdler have put aside their briefcases to become pirates for the day when they took part in the Dragon Boat Festival. A twenty strong team put up the jolly roger and set sail all in aid of raising much needed Doubloons for The Severn Hospice.

20/06/2008 - Pride of Shropshire Winners
Lanyon Bowdler were thrilled to attend the Pride of Shropshire awards last night as main sponsors of the event as well as sponsoring the Courage Award. They had the opportunity to present the Courage Award to the winner of that category, 9 year old Sophie Foxley, for the immense courage she has shown in fighting leukaemia.

16/06/2008 - Ludlow office moves to Eco Park
Twelve months on from the merger of Morgans Solicitors and Lanyon Bowdler, partners and staff are thrilled their new purpose built offices are ready for occupation. Sitting on the Eco Business Park on the outskirts of Ludlow there will be ample parking and meeting facilities for clients and professionals as well as comfortable open plan working for staff.

13/05/2008 - NFU Legal Panel Appointment
Lanyon Bowdler, are delighted to have been appointed as one of the NFU Legal Panel Solicitors for the West Midlands, they will be offering support to the farmers & growers in Staffordshire, Shropshire and Herefordshire.

08/05/2008 - £800,000 pounds awarded to family of injured baby
The family of a baby who sustained horrific injuries in a car crash has been awarded £800,000 in compensation.

05/05/2008 - Boy injured on bouncy castle seeking compensation
A boy who suffered brain damage after he was kicked in the head while playing on a bouncy castle has been awarded compensation that could amount to £1 million, a ruling that will cause parents to stop and think.

02/05/2008 - Florist loses bid to appeal
The owner of a flower shop has failed in her bid to hold a commuter partly responsible for a fall that occurred on the pavement outside her London shop.

01/05/2008 - Two new partners appointed
Lanyon Bowdler, Shropshire’s leading law firm, is expanding the partnership by welcoming the appointment of Edward Rees and Paula Nash.

24/04/2008 - Fatal accident at work - family statement
Following the Inquest into the death in March 2003 of the late Mr Robert Howe, this statement is made by Dawn Humphries, Specialist Accident Solicitor for Lanyon Bowdler acting on behalf of Mrs Christine Howe, her daughter Ms Kristy Howe and their family. Whilst Mrs Howe was too distressed to attend the hearing they have all welcomed the narrative verdict setting out in detail the catalogue of errors leading to this tragic death.

24/04/2008 - Supporting local communities
Twelve months on from the merger of Morgans Solicitors and Lanyon Bowdler, partners and staff are thrilled their new purpose built offices are ready for occupation. Sitting on the Eco Business Park on the outskirts of Ludlow there will be ample parking and meeting facilities for clients and professionals as well as comfortable open plan working for staff. Partner Roger Taylor, formerly a partner with Morgans, said “it was a big decision to move out of the town centre but we need to be able to offer the facilities to our clients and staff ensuring a top quality level of service and modern working conditions.”

24/04/2008 - Lanyon Bowdler appointed on Very High Cost Case Panel
Some of the most complex and expensive criminal cases can take up to months to reach court. In order to be able to represent a defendant in matters such as these, a law firm needs to be approved by The Legal Services Commission and appear on their Very High Cost Case Panel.

23/04/2008 - New head of private client department
Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors are pleased to announce that their Private Client Department is to be headed by Edward Rees. Having been a member of Lanyon Bowdler’s six strong expert Private Client team for the past four years.

22/04/2008 - Fatal accident at work - British Sugar boiler explosion
Following the Inquest into the death in March 2003 of the late Mr Robert Howe, this statement is made by Dawn Humphries, Specialist Accident Solicitor for Lanyon Bowdler acting on behalf of Mrs Christine Howe, her daughter Ms Kristy Howe and their family. Whilst Mrs Howe was too distressed to attend the hearing they have all welcomed the narrative verdict setting out in detail the catalogue of errors leading to this tragic death.

27/03/2008 - Who does not need a HIP
Home Information Packs (HIPs) are now required for most residential properties put on the market, but the list of exceptions to the rule – properties that can be marketed without a HIP – is significant.

27/03/2008 - Victory for Pre-Nuptial arrangements
Pre-nuptial agreements have been given a boost following a recent case involving a ‘serial divorcee’.

27/03/2008 - Remarriage not ground for alteration of divorce settlement
When financial arrangements are being made on divorce, the issue of the payment of maintenance is often in point. One of the concerns from the point of view of the payer is that if the ex-spouse remarries, their circumstances may well change significantly, so that the payment of maintenance is no longer appropriate.

27/03/2008 - Problem trees and Preservation Orders
Cases involving damage to a property caused by trees located on a neighbour’s land, especially those dealing with subsidence or heave due to roots, are fairly common. One complication that arises is where the tree in question is subject to a preservation order.

27/03/2008 - Debt still valid bankruptcy
When a person is unable to pursue a claim against someone who has been made bankrupt on account of the bankruptcy having been discharged, it may still be possible to pursue the claim against the bankrupt’s insurers, following a recent ruling.

26/03/2008 - E-Conveyancing on the way
Plans to update the conveyancing process in England and Wales have been ongoing since 1998, when preliminary proposals were set out in a report, compiled by the Law Commission and the Land Registry, entitled Land Registration for the Twenty-First Century. Consultation on how best to go about re-engineering the system has been extensive. The aim is to develop an electronic system of conveyancing that makes buying and selling easier for all those involved in the process.

26/03/2008 - Directors - be careful what you sign
The Court of Appeal recently handed down a decision which should convince directors to take great care when they sign contractual documents on behalf of their companies… because if the contract contains a misrepresentation, they can in some circumstances be held personally liable for it by the courts. The fact that the contract may not benefit the director is not a defence.

26/03/2008 - Avoiding online theft
Theft using IT is a rapidly growing area of crime, with ever-greater sophistication being used to plunder the bank accounts of the vulnerable and to obtain credit and/or goods. The results can be substantial financial loss (in the short term in any event) and a compromised credit history.

25/03/2008 - Annual increase in Tribunal Awards
The Employment Rights (Increase of Limits) Order 2007, which details the annual inflation-linked increase in limits on the amounts which can be awarded by employment tribunals, was made on 18 December 2007 and applies where the appropriate date falls on or after 1 February 2008.

25/03/2008 - Can Big Brother read your emails
Recently amended provisions of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 could further restrict the rights of organisations and individuals wishing to protect sensitive electronic information.

25/03/2008 - Willingness to improve enables Father to regain custody
A father who showed significant improvement in his ability to look after his son has been granted custody of the child by the Court of Appeal.

21/03/2008 - Is a risk assessment necessary
These days, health and safety issues are important considerations for the management of most firms and the potential ramifications of failing to adopt robust health and safety policies are now well known.

20/03/2008 - Donation of computer monitors
Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors have donated 12 computer monitors to the South Shropshire Furniture Scheme.

20/03/2008 - Disqualification traps for Directors
The Companies Act 2006, most of which is now in force, imposes tough new criteria governing the behaviour of directors. In particular, when making decisions directors must bear in mind the potential effects of those decisions on various ‘stakeholders’ (those with an interest in their outcome, such as employees and shareholders) and the environment.

19/03/2008 - Employing Illegal Migrant Workers
New measures designed to tackle illegal migrant working came into force on 29 February 2008.

18/03/2008 - McCartney split - implications for divorcing couples
The much-publicised divorce of Sir Paul McCartney and Heather Mills has led to a settlement in favour of Ms Mills of £24.3 million. Press speculation was rife that she might be awarded anything up to £60 million from Sir Paul’s fortune, which is estimated to be £400 million – the figure presented by his side in the proceedings and accepted by the court. Ms Mills, who represented herself, claims that he is worth £800 million.

12/03/2008 - Business the Main Beneficiary as Darling Bids to Stave Off Disaster
The Chancellor of the Exchequer’s announcement that the standard rate of VAT would be reduced from 17.5 per cent to 15 per cent was possibly the most widely leaked Government decision in recent years and will come as welcome news to the poorest in the economy. The VAT change applies from 1 December 2008 until the end of 2009, so whether it will be welcomed by businesses...

11/03/2008 - Government abandons plans to protect cohabitees
The Government has announced that it does not, for the time being at any rate, intend to proceed with reforms to the law that would have given cohabiting partners similar rights to married couples or civil partners on the breakdown of their relationship. This unexpected announcement was made by Justice Minister Bridget Prentice and is all the more surprising given the inconsistency of rulings made by the courts in this problematic area.

27/02/2008 - £7.4 million compensation for injured man
A Shropshire man has been awarded compensation when the High Court sitting in Birmingham approved a £7.4m settlement earlier this week. Mr Ezugwu’s solicitor, Catastrophic Injury specialist Neil Lorimer from Lanyon Bowdler said: “This is a huge award. It is to my knowledge the highest ever awarded in Shropshire and Mid Wales, but it has been carefully calculated to meet Mr Ezugwu’s extensive needs, now and for the rest of his life. The fund will be held and managed by the Court of Protection and will be used to meet those needs.” Chukwudi (Chuk) Ezugwu, together with his fiancée, Sarah Price, were travelling along the A41 at Tong in November 2003, when they were involved in a head on collision with a car traveling on the wrong side of the road. The driver of the oncoming car, Mrs Jacqueline Platt died at the scene of the accident as a result of her injuries. Her insurers admitted negligence. Mr Ezugwu and Miss Price were airlifted to Selly Oak Hospital where sadly Miss Price later died. Chuk sustained a serious brain injury and was in a critical condition for several weeks. He spent two years in hospital and has moved into a specially adapted home. He has been left with language, speech and cognitive difficulties. He also suffered multiple orthopaedic injuries which severely limit his walking distance. The injuries were so bad that Chuk has been left needing 24 hour supervision for the rest of his life. However he remains a passionate football supporter and enjoys following Shrewsbury Town and Manchester United. Speaking on behalf of the family, Chuk’s mother Anna Ezugwu said: “This is wonderful – it hasn’t sunk in yet but it is far better than we expected. I don’t have to worry about Chuk now if something were to happen to me, I know that he will receive the care he needs for the rest of his life. Mr Lorimer and his team have been fantastic and my family and I would like to give them a special thank you. I have been a client of Lanyon Bowdler since 1971 and I am treated like I am one of the family.”

26/02/2008 - Telford Tree of Light
We are proud to announce that this year the Telford Tree of Light committee raised in excess of £33,000, more than it has ever raised in its 13 years of existence. £16,552 of this was donated to the Severn Hospice who are one of our designated local charities.

25/02/2008 - Preparing your Business for 21st Century Litigation
Be prepared! Solicitors handling litigation will start to find stricter measures being applied to the disclosure of electronic documents. Courts will be asking questions at case management conferences about electronic sources – particularly email – that have up till now been tacitly ignored.

22/02/2008 - Public Funding in Ludlow
We all know that it can be a costly experience visiting a solicitor. But Lanyon Bowdler have recently been granted a contract from the Legal Services Commission which allows them to offer publicly funded work to the population of Ludlow and the surrounding area.

05/02/2008 - Change in Limitation Period
It may be possible now for a victim of assault or abuse to claim for damages outside the prescribed limitation period.

18/01/2008 - Expanding Law Firm gains IIP Recognition
The partners and staff of Lanyon Bowdler have recently been rewarded for all their hard work and commitment by being recognised as an Investor in People.

04/01/2008 - Flexible working rights
Whilst anyone can ask their employer for more flexible working arrangements, since April 2003 parents and others (such as guardians) who are responsible for looking after children under the age of six years (or 18 years if the child is disabled) have had the legal right to request to work flexible hours and to have their request taken seriously by their employer, provided they have worked for their employer for 26 weeks continuously before the application is made.

02/01/2008 - Buying abroad - take care
Recently, the newspapers have once again been featuring the plight of British people who have bought foreign properties (this time in Spain) only to discover that there are defects in their title, the ramifications of which can be catastrophic for the owners as their dream of a place in the sun turns into a nightmare.

02/01/2008 - CGT and non-business assets
Much has been made of the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) changes, announced in the pre-budget report in October, regarding the taxation of business assets, due to the abolition from 6 April 2008 of ‘taper relief’. However, the CGT position regarding non-business assets will also change significantly from that date.

01/01/2008 - Maternity leave
Employers with staff absent on maternity leave should be aware that a failure to offer them the same rights and opportunities as their colleagues could result in claims of sex discrimination.

20/12/2007 - Company road safety - Police get tough
Employers who forget that their health and safety responsibilities extend to employees driving on company business should take note of a shift in the way police will investigate road accidents in future.

14/12/2007 - Lover awarded 1m from estate
The long-term lover of a man who had promised to marry her but died before they could wed has received more than £1m from his £3m estate.

14/12/2007 - Happy Christmas from Lanyon Bowdler
Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

13/12/2007 - Northern Rock - Good news for ISA holders
The panic that overnight turned Northern Rock from a respected High Street fixture to a lame duck saw thousands of holders of ISAs in ‘the Rock’ queuing to withdraw their savings.

12/12/2007 - New English Language qualifications for migrant workers
The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills has launched new English language qualifications for migrant workers and employers. The new English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) for Work qualifications will make it easier for migrant workers to get the practical English language skills they are likely to need in the workplace. There will be eight ESOL for Work qualifications, each having a slightly different focus and taking a different approach to assessment.

11/12/2007 - Netball team top the league
A team of Shropshire solicitors have taken on the challenge and formed a netball team. The Lanyon Bowdler team is going from strength to strength winning all of their 6 matches and topping the league.

10/12/2007 - New office at Ludlow Eco Park
In the Summer of 2008 Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors will be moving into their new offices at the Ludlow Eco Business Park. The new office will be built to BREEAM (Environmental Assessment Method) Excellent standards – the building industry’s highest rating for environmental excellence in construction and this level of excellence will be continued in the level of client care that will be offered.

10/12/2007 - Damages for wine bottle injury
A woman whose thumb was lacerated when she tried to open a bottle of wine has been awarded £6,000 in damages.

10/12/2007 - Two hundred and fifty thousand pounds for Workplace back injury
A man whose career was ended when he slipped down a grass verge at work has been awarded £250,000 in compensation.

06/12/2007 - Grosvenor House open evening
An open evening is being held at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors new office tonight which is based at Grosvenor House, Central Park, Telford.

05/12/2007 - Sponsors of Shropshire Music Trust
Ex Cathedra played to a packed and appreciative audience at St Chads Church, Shrewsbury last night. This was organised by Shropshire Music Trust and Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors were the proud sponsors along with an investment received from the Arts & Business Council.

03/12/2007 - Consultation on collective redundancies
The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has ruled that the obligation on an employer, under section 188 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 (TULRCA), to consult over collective redundancies extends to consultations over the reasons for the closure of a business (UK Coal Mining Ltd. v National Union of Mineworkers). In the EAT’s view, the obligation to consult over avoiding proposed redundancies inevitably involves examining the reasons for the dismissals and that in turn requires consultation over the reasons for the closure.

19/11/2007 - Successful fundraising for Children in Need
Partners and staff at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors are celebrating after raising over £650 for Children in Need 2007.

16/11/2007 - Solicitors walk the plank in aid of Children in Need
Shropshire solicitors Lanyon Bowdler have become pirates to raise money for this years Children in Need.

17/10/2007 - Directors Duties 2007
Company directors in the county are being advised that new company law in force today affects the duties they owe to their companies. The Companies Act 2006, which has partly been brought into force today, introduces a statutory statement of directors’ duti

15/10/2007 - The skys the limit for Shropshire Solicitors
A team of 12 from Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors have had the unique once in a lifetime opportunity of "flying" through Shrewsbury suspended on a zip wire. This daring event was all in aid of Severn Hospice one of Lanyon Bowdler’s designated local charities.

05/10/2007 - Shropshire Lawyers hit the right note
Staff from Shropshire law firm Lanyon Bowdler will be leaving their law books behind and picking up their music books on 6th October, when they join the Shrewsbury Cantata Choir for a charity performance of Handel’s "Messiah" in aid of the Severn Hospice.

26/09/2007 - Humberts merger with Halls
The corporate team at Lanyon Bowdler acted for the vendors on the sale of Halls, the group of Estate Agents, Agricultural and Fine Art Auctioneers, Valuers and Surveyors.

21/09/2007 - Senior Solicitor crosses the border into Shropshire

18/09/2007 - Success in the Legal 500
Shropshire based law firm Lanyon Bowdler is celebrating after receiving 10 recommendations in the UK Legal 500 Directory, this puts Lanyon Bowdler as the top Shropshire Law firm.

18/09/2007 - New legal service for Non English Speakers
An innovative new service which enables non English speaking individual’s access to legal advice was launched today. The scheme was devised by Shropshire based law firm Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors in partnership with specialist translating and interpreting experts Dixon Associates.

18/09/2007 - Lanyon Bowdler staff take part in the Race for Life
Shropshire Law firm raises in excess of £1,000 for Race for life.

18/09/2007 - Lanyon Bowdler appoints Shropshire Legal Ace as Senior Partner
Lanyon Bowdler has as elected Peter Flint as the firm’s Senior Partner. Peter will be responsible for driving the profile of the firm forward, acting as a public ambassador for the firm and representing the firm in the Shropshire community.

17/09/2007 - Face up to debt
A Shropshire lawyer is urging individuals with debt problems to seek professional advice at the earliest opportunity. Gary Sans, Legal Executive with Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors, says that recent statistics show that during 2006, debt in the UK became a more serious problem than ever as households struggle to cope with debt totalling £1.1 trillion.

17/09/2007 - Ex-wife Faces Former Partners Bankruptcy
You might have thought it was all over – but your divorce settlement may not be as final as you hoped, says Peter Flint of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors.

17/09/2007 - £1 million Compensation award
An unlikely Hatrick - Man loses leg, becomes Football coach and receives just under a £1million following accident at work!

17/09/2007 - Businesses of Shropshire Check Your Email
Shropshire Businesses which change their email addresses as a means of reducing spam should take care following a recent decision in the Commercial Court.

17/09/2007 - Asbestos Claims Continue to Rise
Asbestos-related diseases are thought to have caused more than 4,000 deaths last year in the UK, whilst many other people presented with the first symptoms of illness caused by exposure to asbestos. One of the worst diseases associated with asbestos is mesothelioma, for which there is no cure. Three recent successful claims show the levels of compensation currently being awarded to mesothelioma sufferers.

17/09/2007 - Dog attacks
Is Shropshire suffering from a plague of vicious dog attacks? Barely a week passes without reports of a horrific attack on some innocent victim, often with horrific consequences. Unsurprisingly dog owners and victims alike are uncertain of the laws surrounding dog attacks. If you are the owner, are you liable if your dog injures or attacks somebody? If you are the victim of an attack, can you claim for compensation and press criminal charges?

13/08/2007 - Acceptance of Payment Causes Loss of Rights

13/08/2007 - Bad News for Shropshire Landowners and Developers
A warning to Shropshire landowners and developers asking them to be aware if their land falls into the category of "Common Land".

13/08/2007 - Local advice is great when it comes to Compensation Claims!
Local advice is great when it comes to Compensation Claims!

13/08/2007 - Changes to disclosure obligations
Companies risk fines due to failure to comply with disclosure obligations imposed by regulations.

01/08/2007 - Resolution Accredited Specialist Status
The skills of a Shropshire Lawyer have been recognised by the UK’s leading Family Law Group – Resolution. Sue Hodgson, Family Lawyer at law firm Lanyon Bowdler, has recently gained Resolution Accredited Specialist Status.

09/07/2007 - Shropshire bred Solicitor comes home and joins Local Solicitors
Shropshire bred Solicitor comes home and joins Local Solicitors

08/07/2007 - Work Shoulder Injury
An 80-year-old man who fell at work and injured his shoulder has received £5,000 in an out of court settlement.

06/07/2007 - London Underground derailment
Eleven passengers were taken to hospital and thirty seven were injured following a rush hour train crash on the London Underground on Thursday 5th July.

31/05/2007 - Shropshire Motocrosser has eyes set on success
Shropshire Motorcrosser Danny Blair is hoping that all his training pays off at the forthcoming Wulfsport British Masters Motocross Championship being held at Hawkstone Park on the 16th and 17th June 2007. Danny, who is a member of the Warsley Wasps, will be riding his Kawasaki 85 cc and has his eyes firmly set on success.

30/01/2007 - Dad calls for further investigation into son's death
Dad calls for further investigation into son’s death following routine operation.