A DISPUTE resolution solicitor is set to leave a leading Basingstoke law firm to become a district judge.

Stephen Nichols, of QualitySolicitors Clarke & Son, based at Manor House, in Winchester Road, said he was delighted with his new appointment.

He said: “I will be sitting in the County Court and the new Family Court, dealing with civil work, which consists of disputes between companies or individuals, insolvency, housing, injury cases and the like, and family work, which includes divorce and financial matters relating to it and disputes relating to children.

“I have immensely enjoyed my time at QualitySolicitors Clarke & Son. I have been impressed by the helpfulness and courtesy of the staff, and I am grateful for the support that the partners have given me, not only in my time at the office, but also in my earlier capacity as a deputy district judge.

“I am sure that QualitySolicitors Clarke & Son is in a good position to continue to do well, as it has for more than 150 years, and I wish everyone at the firm the very best for the future.”