A LEADING East Lancashire legal firm has announced the appointment of four four new Associates from within the firm.

In its Blackburn office, Watson Ramsbottom Solicitors have appointed Dana McIlwaine as an associate in residential property law, while Sophia Isa and Michelle Whitaker have made the grade in family. Meanwhile, Danielle Wane from the firm's Darwen office is now an associate in wills, probate and private client law.

Managing director Elton Ashworth said “I would like to congratulate all of our new Associates on this achievement, which in each case is very well deserved. It is always rewarding to be able to promote talented team members from within the firm. These appointments demonstrate the commitment we have to investing in the professional development of our staff.”

The promotion of four associates at the same time is a first for Watson Ramsbottom. Bosses say the promotions are a reflection of their individual and combined contributions to the practice and its clients over a number of years