A KIDDERMINSTER law firm has underlined its credentials in farming and rural matters after a member of staff was named young solicitor of the year.

Agricultural expert Alexandra Phillips, of Kidderminster-based Mfg Solicitors, was handed the title at Worcestershire Law Society's first president's awards for her consistent high standards advising the area's rural communities.

Ms Phillips, 32, joined Mfg as a trainee last year and has been based within its specialist agricultural and rural team, one of the largest in the area, as an assistant solicitor since qualifying last September.

Working in the firm's agricultural and rural division, she has built a reputation among famers, estate owners and rural businesses for her work on estate management matters, arbitration, farm sales and an expanding feature of Mfg's rural offering, renewables.

Maynard Burton, partner and chairman at Mfg Solicitors, said: "We are very proud of Alex and delighted she has been recognised with this well-deserved award. The award highlights her passion and professionalism when dealing with our farming and rural clients. She has a great reputation and a strong rapport with everyone, a rare quality for someone so early into their legal career.

"Her award also proves our agricultural and rural affairs team continue to make an impact with clients and, as a firm, we are bringing through the best talent with the right calibre."

Ms Phillips said: "To be recognised by the county's Law Society is a tremendous honour. I love working with our clients across the rural and farming industries. To be part of such an experienced team has already given a great platform to kick off my career and I look forward to contributing more in the months and years ahead."

The society president's awards recognised solicitors across a variety of categories, including trainee solicitor of the year, innovation and a lifetime achievement award.