Network partner of The Family Business Network, Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, has proved its commitment to the high street by opening a new town centre office in West Cumbria.

The legal firm will move into a new office in Cockermouth later this month as part of the firm’s continued expansion.

Staff based at its current West Cumbrian office in Dovenby will transfer to the new base, which is in an historic building on Main Street, close to Cocker Bridge and Market Place. The building is currently being refurbished in Cartmell Shepherd’s signature branding.

Claire Wilson, who is an Associate Solicitor with Cartmell Shepherd based in West Cumbria, said the move would strengthen the legal firm’s presence in the area and bring the team even closer to the community it serves.

She said: “The new office is a fantastic signal to the local community that we’re committed to the local area.

“Being in the centre of Cockermouth will mean we are more accessible for our clients and it will also enable us to get even more involved with town initiatives which support local businesses.

“We’re really excited about moving to Cockermouth and can’t wait to be based there.”

Claire will be joined at the new office by private client executive, Laura Clarke. Laura lives in Cockermouth and is a representative on the town’s Chamber of Trade. Two support staff, Gemma Rudd and Lauren Hanley, will also be based at the office.

Cartmell Shepherd’s full range of legal services will be available from the Cockermouth office, which is due to open on December 17. The award-winning leading law firm has more than 40 solicitors who bring specialist expertise to individuals and businesses across a wide range of sectors.

Andrew Marshall, chairman of Cockermouth & District Chamber of Trade, said: “The Cartmell Shepherd team has already been hugely supportive of the Chamber of Trade’s work in Cockermouth from their base in Dovenby and it will be fabulous to welcome them to their new premises on Main Street.

“We never like to see empty properties in town – and we are blessed that there are relatively few of these – so to see them take on this lovely historic building makes it all the more special. We wish them well and look forward to having an even closer working relationship with the team now they’re in such a central location.”

Peter Stafford, managing director of Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, said opening the new office in Cockermouth town centre reflected the company’s ethos of being part of the community.

He said: “By investing in the high street and becoming more involved in local activities, we can help support local businesses and the people who depend on them.

“Cartmell Shepherd is committed to serving its clients in the best way possible and being at the heart of our communities is part of that.”

The spacious office building, which was previously occupied by Bell Park Kerridge Solicitors, will have all the necessary Covid safety measures in place to help protect staff and clients.

Claire, who is part of Cartmell Shepherd’s Private Client team, specialising in private client law, wills, probate and inheritance, said: “It’s important to build a personal connection with clients. Having measures in place to hold meetings in person will allow us to get to know them better and understand what they need so we can give them the best possible legal representation.”

Cartmell Shepherd has remained open for business throughout the pandemic, with staff working from home wherever possible and client meetings by appointment. Under current restrictions, where a phone or virtual appointment is not possible, staff will meet clients in person with social distancing and other safety measures in place.

Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors also has offices in Rosehill Carlisle, Carlisle city centre, Brampton, Penrith and Haltwhistle.