A CONSULTANT for solicitors Ware & Kay has retired after 47 years.

Having qualified in 1970, Peter Lawrence - who is the father of Missing York chef, Claudia Lawrence, moved to North Yorkshire in 1972 and was a partner in a country town practice for 30 years, followed by practising as a sole practitioner for eight years.

Peter said: “I have seen and experienced many changes since I started. The office was a quieter place as we didn’t have photocopiers, computers, faxes, mobile phones and life was a much slower pace.

“I therefore feel it appropriate to bow out at the age of 71. I will miss the people I have come in contact with, both staff and clients, many of whom I have known since the beginning of my career, but I am now ready to start a new chapter. Singing is a huge part of my life both with the York Musical Society and Missing People’s Choir with lots of events planned for the future.”

Peter Kay, senior director, said: “Peter has been an outstanding consultant for the clients of Ware & Kay and has delivered exceptional service to the firm.

“He has provided an influential voice and an in-depth level of expertise on all planning and agricultural matters and we wish him a long and happy retirement and success for everything that lies ahead.”