THE severity of the last recession and self-belief led to litigation solicitor Chris Newton starting his own firm in 2009.

"I did not want to look back and wonder ‘what if’," says Chris Newton who left his job to start Newtons Solicitors, initially working from the loft at his Whixley home.

"They were difficult financial times for many people. I did not know if I had clients or enough fee income to rent an office. My plan was to keep overheads low and pass savings onto clients so everyone was happy.

"I was surprised by my strong client following. First month’s billings were £16,000 and £18,000 in the second. Soon my old team asked if they could join me and more clients followed."

Then more solicitors who were acquaintances joined, all working from home. First year turnover topped £300,000 and the firm opened its first office in Knaresborough.

Having launched a profitable business, Chris Newton acquired Hodgson & Mortimer Solicitors in 2012 with offices in Richmond and Darlington, 16 staff and a £600,000 turnover. This was followed by acquiring Thorp Parker Solicitors, Stokesley, with 23 staff and a £700,000 turnover, in 2014.

Continuing growth now sees Newtons Solicitors with nine offices across North and West Yorkshire and Teesside, a £3.75 million turnover and 70 staff - all achieved in six tough years for the economy.

He said: "I always wanted a business and had explored various ideas but never considered my own profession as I thought that it would be too difficult to get off the ground.

"I always believed I could succeed but, like all business owners, I have had sleepless nights along the way. As the business grows, some things become easier but different challenges present themselves.

"The business has exceeded my wildest dreams and I see future growth by encouraging our people to develop their own teams within Newtons. I put our success down to hard work, being fair and surrounding myself with good people."

What job would you like to have other than your own and why?

"Working outdoors for the National Trust in the Lake District. The law is very stressful and mainly deskbound. I’d like to feel as though I was giving something back in an area that I love."

Greatest achievement?

"What we’ve achieved with Newtons Solicitors. The really exciting bit is where we’re going to take it."

What makes you most angry?

"People undermining what the team is working so hard to build at Newtons."

Biggest mistake?

"There are a few regrets but I’ve come to terms with them in my own mind. Mainly where I could have done better by people / the rare occasion where I’ve let people down."

What do you need to make life complete?

"My wife told me a while back that I was getting the work life balance completely wrong (and I don’t think she meant I should be spending more time at work). So I’m working on that – in fact I think it is going rather well!"

Why do you make a difference?

"Because I try hard and care."

Epitaph

"He did too many sports and none of them particularly well!"