Matthew Rogers, who works in one of Cumbria’s largest private client teams at Cartmell Shepherd, was presented with the Society of Trust & Estate Professionals’ (STEP) Worldwide Excellence Award.

It was given to the STEP student in the Lakes and Lancaster region who achieved the highest average marks in all exams for the STEP Advanced Certificate in Will Preparation, which covered wills, estates, trusts and succession planning.

Matthew said: “I am thrilled to have received this award, and to be a part of an organisation of elite professionals who are continually enhancing their knowledge and experience in order to provide superior advice and service to their clients.

“I received incredible support from the wills, probate and inheritance team at Cartmell Shepherd during the course of my studies.”

Deborah Flynn, Director and Head of Department, said: “Matthew’s dedication to high professional standards and his studies make him a fantastic member of our team”

“This award is a reflection of his ongoing hard work, and a mark of his professionalism and skills.”

Matthew joined Cartmell Shepherd in September 2013 and, following two years of training, qualified as a solicitor in September 2015

Of the course, he said: “STEP is the leading organisation for private client practitioners working in wills, estates, trusts and succession planning.

“The course equips the candidate with not only a sound understanding of the law of wills but also deals with the practicalities of will drafting and the broad range of considerations which surround estate planning.

“Will and estate planning is an increasingly complex area due to rising wealth, globalisation and the complexity of modern family life. The course provided me with further understanding and knowledge so I can provide the highest quality advice to my clients.”