A YORK law firm is demonstrating its commitment to bringing on new talent in the sector.

Lupton Fawcett's York office is happy to welcome Fiona Crothers, a newly qualified solicitor who has undertaken her training contract with the firm.

In her new role, Fiona will

join the 12-strong charities and education team, which is currently acting for more than 100 charities and not-for-profit organisations,

as well as providing advice to schools, colleges and academies across the country.

She joined Lupton Fawcett two-and-a-half years ago and has worked within the guidelines of the Solicitors Regulation Authority's initiative called 'work-based experience'.

This means that the firm is

able to recognise a candidate's relevant prior experience and take it into account to reduce the period of training.

Fiona said: "I am very proud of my achievement and that I will be appointed as a solicitor with Lupton Fawcett.

"It has been great to work with such an experienced team throughout my training and I am extremely grateful for all the valuable help and advice they have given me."

Mark Honeywell, who heads up the charities team in York and is also joint head of the education department, said: "There is no doubt that Fiona is a rising star and she is already proving to be a valuable member of the team.

"Throughout her training she has impressed us with her enthusiasm, ability to quickly understand the clients' requirements and her considered suggestions about

the course of action that should be taken."

Managing partner Jonathan Oxley added: "Fiona's advancement to a solicitor is a great reflection of the workplace ethic we have at Lupton Fawcett.

"As a firm we are great believers in retaining and developing talent people and providing them with a great career.