A LAW firm with offices in York and North Yorkshire is bidding farewell to its longest-serving employee after 52 years.

Ian Fisher is retiring after a distinguished career with Ware & Kay, spanning more than half a century during which he assisted many generations of families.

Ian joined the firm when it was known as Newbald Kay & Sons and had its York office in Lendal in July 1969 - just days before Neil Armstrong landed on the moon, David Bowie released Space Oddity and the halfpenny ceased to be legal tender.

Ian leaves with a vast knowledge of wills and probate, estate administration, inheritance tax planning and later life care through the use of lasting powers of attorney.

He said: “Ware & Kay has been a significant factor throughout my life.

“When I first started work all telephone calls went through a switchboard in reception. There were no direct dials and mobiles had not even been invented.

“Secretaries took dictation using shorthand and documents were prepared on manual typewriters.

“Technology has changed and improved the way things are done but one thing that has not changed is the personal way Ware & Kay assists our clients.

“I am confident that I leave the firm in great shape and ideally poised to continue to take on the challenges of the forthcoming years, decades and beyond, with excellent staff and commitment to absolute client focus.

“I now look forward to enjoying my retirement with friends and family.”

Ware & Kay’s senior director Peter Kay said: “On behalf of the directors and all the staff at the firm, I would like to thank Ian for his hard work, diligence and dedication over his 50 years.

“Ian is well known and respected in the legal community and we shall all miss him but wish him a long and happy retirement to enjoy quality time with his family.”

As well as bidding farewell to Ian, the firm has welcomed two new members. Gemma Foster, a commercial property solicitor, has joined the York office and will specialise in all aspects of commercial property matters.

Tracie Middleton, a residential property solicitor, has joined the team at the Malton office, Pearsons & Ward, and will provide comprehensive advice to clients on all types of residential property transactions.

Tracie has been a councillor with Ryedale District Council for the Wolds since 2019 and her local knowledge is key to developing links with the local community.