More than 100 clients, commercial advisors and professional colleagues joined staff from Thrings’ Southampton office – based at the Southampton International Business Park – for the event which was also attended by the firm’s Agriculture, Corporate, Commercial Property, Family and Private Client teams.
Guests had the opportunity to enjoy networking over canapés and drinks, as well as explore the museum whose collection of vehicles spans the entire history of motoring and motorcycling on the roads and race tracks of Britain, from family cars to Formula One.
As part of its ongoing plans for expansion, Thrings increased its geographical presence in the south of England when it opened the new premises in Southampton last October, adding strength and depth to its existing teams and extending its long-term association with the region.
The office is headed up by two former Blake Morgan partners, rural and agriculture specialist, Mark Charter, and private client expert, Rachel Brooks. Working closely together, Mark and Rachel use their combined expertise and complementary skills to provide a complete service package to clients requiring legal support in the closely related practice areas of agriculture, landed estates and private affairs.
The strategic decision to add to its UK footprint – Thrings already has offices in London, Bristol, Bath and Swindon – has also enabled the firm to strengthen its links with the farming community in the south east, where it is a member of the NFU Legal Panel for seven counties.
Addressing guests at the event, Thrings managing partner, Simon Holdsworth, said: “We are tremendously excited about opening an office in Hampshire. Thrings may be considered new kids on the block, but the firm’s foundations in the county, together with Rachel and Mark’s long-standing relationships with clients and reputation for excellence, made the decision to open in Southampton an easy one and very much in line with our strategic plan for growth.
“Over the coming months and years, we intend to build on these relationships. Our aim is simple – we want to be regarded as a firm that genuinely cares about its relationships with clients and referrers. ‘Client-focused’ is a well-used term, but we will be looking to demonstrate our commitment through the way we do business and look after our clients’ needs.”
Thrings’ team of specialist legal experts in Southampton - which currently includes private client solicitor Carol Ward and tax executive Bonnie Roland – is expected to be bolstered by a number of new arrivals in the coming months.