WORCESTERSHIRE Law Society has unveiled its legal awards shortlist for 2015.

It includes leading lawyers, legal firms and rising stars in the legal world from across the county. Now in its second year after a successful launch in 2014, the awards again include gongs for young solicitor of the year, best trainee solicitor, the prestigious solicitor of the year title, and an award which recognises the best support staff within the county’s legal sector.

The winners will be announced at a glitzy dinner being at Droitwich’s Chateau Impney hotel on Friday, April 24.

Nick Hughes, president of Worcestershire Law Society, said: “Once again we have seen a tremendous response to our President’s Awards and it’s fantastic to see such a high calibre of talent across Worcestershire’s legal industry. The judging panel have had tough decisions to make as the quality of all nominees is extremely high. Every shortlisted entrant stands out in different ways - ranging from the most established lawyers and partners to young up-and-coming trainees. The awards evening will be an opportunity to showcase the quality the county’s legal firms and their teams have."

The short list includes:

Solicitor of the Year: James Lowe, Harrison Clark Rickerbys, Robert Weston, mfg Solicitors LLP and Shane Miller, Thursfields.

Trainee Solicitor of the Year: Tom Bell, mfg Solicitors LLP, Tarnjeet Rehal, Harrison Clark Rickerbys and Nerys Thomas, Harrison Clark Rickerbys.

Young Solicitor of the Year: Harjinder Bains, Thomas Horton, Lisa Kemp, mfg Solicitors LLP and James Osborne, Harrison Clark Rickerbys, Beata Nowakoswka, WWF and Priya Tromans, Harrison Clark Rickerbys.

Best Individual Support Staff: Nicki Wright, Thursfields Child Care LLP, Christopher Finch, Harrison Clark Rickerbys and Elaine Mason, mfg Solicitors LLP.

The winner of the Professional Discipline award will be announced during the ceremony.

The event will include a three-course meal and a short address from Professor John Cooper QC. Tables of 10 are available for £500 and businesses or individuals interested in reserving can email the society’s secretary Tom Evans through tevans@thursfieldsco.uk.