A fledgling East Lancashire law firm has taken a positive step forward by announcing a first appointment.

Sarah Bentley Solicitors - specialist in family law - has welcomed trainee solicitor Eve Brelsford into the fold, after achieving recognition from The Law Society.

And owner Sarah Bentley believes Eve's arrival could hold the key to the long-term success of the Burnley-based practice.

"Eve is ideal for us, both in terms of her professional capabilities and her many personal attributes,” said Sarah. “Her skill set and enthusiasm underlines her genuine potential to become a leading light in family law.”

Sarah Bentley Solicitors, an expert in all matters relating to family and child welfare, has been recognised as a training provider by The Law Society.

“We are very proud of achieving that accreditation,” added Sarah. “It means we are able to offer Eve a complete training package which will lead to her qualifying as a solicitor in 2019.”

Eve, a former student at Westholme School in Blackburn and Burnley Sixth Form College, achieved a Masters Degree in Law at Northumbria University.

“This is a wonderful opportunity and I am grateful to Sarah for showing such confidence in me,” said 24-year-old Eve. “Sarah is respected throughout the North West for her work in family law and I could not have a better mentor. There will be chances for me to assist in bigger projects than might have been possible at a larger firm and I am also fascinated by the business and accountancy aspects of the role.”

Away from the office, Eve, who hails from Higherford, Burnley and now lives in Hurst Green, enjoys keeping fit. She has taken part in the Great North Run and is also a keen follower of the acclaimed CrossFit training regime.