SHARING OUR NEWS, VIEWS & EVENTS AROUND OUR COUNTIES & BEYOND
Lodders life
we
As I write this with the summer sun blazing, we are marking a year since we moved into our new office space at 1 Newhall Street in the heart of Birmingham’s business district. As we hoped, this has been a real catalyst for growth and, as part of this, we were delighted to welcome Steve Allen as a board adviser to the firm. You can read more about Steve’s role and his impressive background on page 20.
Staying with the people theme, a highlight for us this year has been the appointment of Steve Halkett, one of the Midlands region’s best known corporate lawyers. Steve has joined the equity group at Lodders alongside Andrew Wylde and Dawn Oliver and they have
all brought a fantastic dynamism and commerciality to our leadership team.
Turning to our client features, you can read about the fascinating Fort Hubberston, the Warwickshire farmers behind Tenderstem broccoli, and a round-up of some of the deals completed by our dynamic Corporate team. We also look at the changing landscape for farmers and highlight opportunities in renewable energy and biodiversity net gain.
I would also like to highlight our brand new partnership with Coventry Rugby Club. We will be supporting the club both on and off the pitch with their exciting development plans and it’s clear already that we have a real shared vision for growth.
For me, it is now all about looking forwards and I am personally excited to be launching our new strategic plan this Autumn, putting client care and people at the heart of all we do. I firmly believe we have a genuine opportunity to be the pre-eminent private wealth law firm for individuals, landowners and entrepreneurs who value client service above all else.
I hope you enjoy this latest issue and would like to thank you for placing your trust in Lodders and being a valued member of our network.
Editor:
Hilary Campton
E: marketing@lodders.co.uk
Editorial:
Lucy Faulkner, V Formation
Beckie Barrett, V Formation
Molly Davies
Photography:
Jas Sansi Photography
William Elson
Dave Warren, Picture Team
Steve Liddiard
Videography: William Elson
Lodders Life is produced for Lodders by: Reach Marketing www.reachmarketing.co.uk
Lodders Solicitors LLP - our offices:
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Cheltenham
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www.lodders.co.uk
@lodders-solicitors-llp
Cover image: Lodders teams up with Coventry Rugby Club
growing appetite for fresh veg over 1600 hectares
Feeding Britain’s
Sandfields Farms, part of the G’s Group, one of Europe’s leading fresh produce companies, has specialised in the production of British spring onions, asparagus, seasonal fresh legumes, and pumpkins for over 17 years.
Over 1,600 hectares of crops are grown by the farm, including cereals and a range of salad and vegetables for supply to multiple UK retail and wholesale customers. Sandfields’ main farming base is in the Warwickshire village of Luddington, with crops grown across a 35-mile radius.
Now it is set to branch out even further following a bold new strategic investment in a family-owned business AS Green Ltd, one of the UK’s leading growers of Tenderstem® broccoli. The investment creates a partnership with decades of expertise, a shared commitment to sustainability, and a passion and vision for long-term resilience in British agriculture.
Rooted in tradition
Rich in history and legacy, AS Green has been providing fresh produce since 1901. Today, the business farms more than 650 hectares across the picturesque Three Counties - Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire.
To build on the existing growth of the business, the Green family sought additional management expertise and saw Sandfields Farms under the leadership of managing director Derek Wilkinson as the ideal fit. And so, in April 2025, Sandfields, which also has an operation in Senegal, West Africa, made a 50% investment in the Green family’s vegetable growing business.
“Life is all about relationships and working with people you can trust,” Derek explained. “We have worked closely with the Green family for many years, and they have developed a fantastic business that is founded on quality, care, and trusted partnerships. By working together, we will add greater resilience through integration of systems, innovation, and access to a broader farming base.”
The move gives AS Green a foothold in valuable farmland across Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Kent, and Cambridgeshire, whilst unlocking infrastructure, logistical support, and the integration of systems that will streamline operations and drive economies of scale. The business is now well positioned to build on the significant growth it has enjoyed over the last 17 years.
Leanne Lawrence and Derek Wilkinson
of crops across a 35 mile radius
The delicate art of growing Tenderstem®
AS Green started growing Tenderstem 18 years ago with a humble two hectares. Today, it spans more than 600 hectares. But growing the crop is not for the faint-hearted, with Tenderstem requiring a great deal of nurturing in both planting and harvesting. The Greens’ dedication to cultivating the crop paid off in 2007 when it became one of the first ever UK growers to deliver English Tenderstem broccoli to supermarket shelves. Previously it had all been imported, predominantly from Kenya and other African countries.
Bitesize facts
• Tenderstem is a registered trade mark owned by seed growing specialists Sakata UK Limited
• The UK Tenderstem season runs from June to November
• Over half of annual Tenderstem broccoli sold is grown in the UK
Superstems
Tenderstem was first produced in Japan in 1993, a result of breeding Chinese kale with broccoli. Since then, it has earned a loyal following thanks to its unique blend of nutty flavour, tender yet crunchy texture, and impressive versatility (it is even air-fryer friendly!)
Often hailed as ‘broccoli but better,’ Tenderstem can elevate everyday meals or be used as an easy upgrade for special occasions, offering a more versatile alternative to traditional broccoli. It’s nutritious too, being high in fibre, protein, folate, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C.
Cultivating collaboration
At the same time, the popularity of ‘homegrown’ vegetables is on the rise. UK retailers are working to increase the availability of British-grown produce, with the aim of cutting carbon emissions from imported fruits and vegetables. Indeed, consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of air-freighted goods, as well as the importance of quality, freshness, and sustainability in the food they put on their plates.
Lodders’ corporate law specialist Leanne Lawrence was pleased to advise Sandfields on the purchase of shares in AS Green. Highly experienced in handling business transactions for family businesses of all sizes, she understands the importance of discretion and judiciousness when investing in an established family-run firm.
“Buying into a family business carries emotion and legacy,” Leanne explained.
“We worked collaboratively to protect everyone’s interests and values.”
Derek said: “Leanne was fantasticvery patient, proactive, and efficient. She pulled out all the stops to make this happen, helping to facilitate the agreement with sensitivity and skill.”
Sowing the seeds of a fruitful future
With new vegetable packing facilities on the horizon and shared plans to drive innovation, the partnership is set to strengthen and grow both businesses. For the Green family, it means access to land and management expertise to scale up operations. For Sandfields, it is an expansion into one of the UK’s most in-demand crops with a trusted, seasoned partner.
Together, the farms are sowing the seeds of a sustainable, resilient, and collaborative future for British vegetable growing.
Leanne Lawrence E: leanne.lawrence@lodders.co.uk T: 01789 206134
University and College: shaping the future of land-based innovation through education, research and partnership Hartpury
As the UK’s rural economy evolves at unprecedented speed, institutions like Hartpury University and Hartpury College are taking centre stage in developing future-ready talent and driving innovation across agriculture, animal sciences, business management, equine, sport and veterinary nursing. Nestled in the Gloucestershire countryside, Hartpury is nationally and internationally recognised for its specialist expertise and forward-thinking approach – empowering students and businesses alike to lead in a rapidly changing world.
A unique educational ecosystem
With more than 4,600 students from over 60 countries, Hartpury is the only UK institution that fully integrates college and university-level education on a single campus. This unique model provides a seamless academic journey – from schoolleaver pathways and diplomas through to undergraduate and postgraduate degrees – all backed by world-class facilities, real-world learning, and leading research.
Hartpury University and College’s broad academic offering is unified by one goal: bridging academic excellence with practical relevance.
University graduates are highly employable, with 95% (above the national average) of university graduates having moved into employment, further study or purposeful activity, according to the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey. Academic success at college level is also notable; 99.2% of BTEC students and 99.4% of A-level students achieved an overall pass rate with 10 out of 14 subjects achieving a 100% pass rate (results from August 2025).
A national leader in agri-tech
Named in the UK Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan (2025), Hartpury is recognised as a national leader in agri-tech – a key focus of the UK’s Industrial Strategy for building a more resilient, productive and sustainable rural economy.
At the heart of this ambition is Hartpury’s Digital Innovation Farm, which includes a £2 million Agri-Tech Centre and the Tech Box Park, purpose-built for business incubation, research collaboration, and student enterprise.
Projects underway range from:
• AI integration and automation in livestock and arable systems
• Soil carbon monitoring in partnership with Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust
• Advanced connectivity trials with the River Severn Partnership’s Wireless Innovation Region
• Participation in Innovate UK’s High Growth AI Accelerator, piloting projects in wildlife acoustic sensors and methane reduction technologies for livestock.
Meanwhile, Hartpury’s TaLK Project, supported by the Monmouthshire and Stroud Shared Prosperity Fund, is helping regional SMEs adopt tech-based solutions to boost efficiency, resilience and long-term sustainability.
Where education meets enterprise
Hartpury University and Hartpury College aren’t just places to study – they’re a dynamic hub for enterprise and innovation. The campus is home to 11 active commercial operations, including a 400-head dairy unit, equine and canine therapy centres, an international equestrian competition venue, and professional-standard sports facilities.
Students work alongside experts and gain hands-on experience in these environments, developing the technical skills, adaptability, and commercial awareness needed for careers in modern rural industries.
Facilities like the Digital Studio, complete with immersive simulators and virtual reality technology, are enabling learners to engage with cutting-edge tools –trialling everything from drone mapping and yield analysis to precision livestock management.
A strategic partnership for rural progress
In March 2025, Hartpury University and College entered a formal partnership with Lodders, uniting two organisations committed to innovation, education and supporting the rural economy. The partnership brings meaningful opportunities for Hartpury students and the wider community, including specialist legal workshops and guest lectures, work placements and career mentoring, and support for growing agri-business networks in navigating regulation, sustainability, and change.
Championing the countryside of tomorrow
At its heart, Hartpury University and College’s mission is clear: to lead from the front, educate with purpose, and forge partnerships that ensure the land-based sector thrives – not just now, but for generations to come.
Whether it’s preparing students for careers in sustainable agriculture, supporting tech innovation across rural Gloucestershire, or building strategic partnerships with legal and industry leaders – Hartpury University and Hartpury College are shaping the smarter, greener countryside of the future.
For more information, visit: www.hartpury.ac.uk
Rooted in partnership
Earlier this year, Lodders was delighted to announce a collaborative two-year partnership that sees Lodders sponsor the Agri-Tech Centre at the heart of Hartpury’s Digital Innovation Farm.
Our legal expertise, particularly in agriculture and rural affairs, will complement Hartpury University and College’s world-class education, research and industry-facing facilities. This isn’t the first time Lodders and Hartpury have worked side by side, having enjoyed an ongoing engagement across areas including agriculture, digital farming initiatives and sport.
The firm’s legal insights are being made available during six jointly hosted workshops at Hartpury’s Digital Innovation Farm. The topics cover a range of pressing rural sector topics, including succession planning, renewable energy and access to green finance and are proving popular with Hartpury’s agricultural community, at a time when farmers are navigating several challenges.
Our collaborative activities so far have been wide-ranging. Lodders was delighted to attend the NAF Five Star International Hartpury Horse Trials in August, where we enjoyed being at the very heart of the annual VIP networking event.
Partner Dawn Oliver was also involved in Hartpury’s Dragons Den-style competition, where students pitched their innovative business ideas to local leaders.
Commenting on the partnership, Dawn said: “Our sponsorship of the Agri-Tech Centre is a perfect fit for Lodders. It reflects our dedication to supporting innovation and fostering strong, long-lasting partnerships within the agricultural and farming community. The range of legal support Lodders offers to the rural sector is always growing, and we are looking forward to working closely with the Hartpury team to share this specialist expertise and empower future agriculture leaders.”
Stuart Emmerson, director of business development at Hartpury University and Hartpury College said:
“This collaboration will not only enrich the educational journey of our students but also help to support the growth and resilience of the industries we serve. Lodders’ deep sector knowledge aligns perfectly with our mission to develop future leaders in agriculture and across all our specialisms.”
Neave Anderson, Hartpury Digital Innovation Farm manager said: “We’re excited to partner with Lodders as we continue to advance the Hartpury Digital Innovation Farm. Their commitment to agriculture and excellence aligns perfectly with our mission to support the land-based industries.”
a proud sentinel seeking a sustainable revival
Fort Hubberston
Perched on the rugged shores of Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire, Fort Hubberston is a both a Grade II listed Victorian fortress and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
The Fort, commissioned by Lord Palmerston, was completed in 1863 to defend the town against invasion during the Napoleonic Wars. In 1903, it was abandoned but later revived as a secret base for the Americans for Operation Bolero in the D-Day landings.
The years after saw Fort Hubberston fall into a ruinous condition, following decades of decline, vandalism, and trespassing incidents. It was even listed among the “most endangered” heritage sites in 2011, sparking campaigns by community advocates, politicians, and the Palmerston Fort Society to secure a sustainable future for the monument.
A 2019 plan to transform it into a veterans’ residential centre collapsed, and in 2020, it was purchased with a view to becoming a “living ruin.” However, it returned to the market in 2023. A year later, it caught the eye of businessman Kelsey Trattner. He was drawn to its coastal waterfront location and recognised the untapped potential in its space and infrastructure.
“This was an incredibly rare opportunity to breathe new life into a fascinating building steeped in history and heritage, nestled in a quiet corner of Wales,” Kelsey said.
Deep connection to the sea
Designed as a D-shaped fortress with living quarters for 250 men - which included a pub, coal store, and kitchens - the Fort had 11 casemate guns, open batteries, and impressive military architecture including a deep ditch, counterscarp gallery, and bombproof roofs.
The site spans around 2.95 acres, with the boundary running past the fortress walls and to the tide line. It is strategically situated on the west bank of the Milford Haven Waterway – the largest estuary in Wales and one of the deepest in the world.
What is a Scheduled Ancient Monument?
A Scheduled Ancient Monument is a nationally important archaeological site that is legally protected from unauthorised change or damage. Scheduling aims to preserve the archaeological evidence that survives within these sites.
Specialist property expertise
Having no prior experience in purchasing a listed building or a Scheduled Ancient Monument, Kelsey turned to Lodders’ Rhiannon Edwards, partner and head of the Town and Country Homes team, to help him navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding the purchase.
With strong expertise in listed buildings and properties with complex planning histories, Rhiannon was able to complete the purchase in just four months. She said:
“This is most definitely one of the more complex and fascinating properties I have advised on recently, and Kelsey has some exciting plans that I shall be following with interest!”
The Fort is protected by the Welsh historic environment service CADW, to whom Kelsey must apply to for permission to physically alter any part of it. This process is designed to protect the monument, its setting, and its features from any unsympathetic works.
“Plans for the Fort are in their early stages and we’re actively exploring our options,” Kelsey explained. “As part of this, I have been consulting with the small but knowledgeable community of fellow fort owners across the UK. Throughout the process, Rhiannon’s legal support and guidance have been invaluable, and we’re truly grateful for her expertise, particularly in relation to Listed Buildings, Scheduled Ancient Monuments, and the protections surrounding them.”
Rhiannon Edwards E: rhiannon.edwards@lodders.co.uk
T: 01242 229090
© Crown Copyright: Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales
Photography: Steve Liddiard
Corporate deals round up
It has been another busy year for the Business Services group, with the Corporate team completing numerous transactions. Here, we provide a snapshot of some of the deals delivered by the team.
LDelivering community-centred
care
eanne Lawrence, legal director in Lodders’ Business Services group, played a key role in guiding Wellesbourne and Kineton-based GP practice Hastings House on its successful acquisition of Wellesbourne Pharmacy.
Hastings House already serves 13,500 patients across 19 villages within a 90 square kilometre area and is expanding its commitment to delivering best-inclass community healthcare even further. Although Wellesbourne has had a GP presence since the 1750s, population growth in the last 20 years has dramatically increased demand for local services. Indeed, with 300 new homes being built locally, an estimated 800 additional patients are anticipated in the near future.
As well as meeting the needs of this growing population, one of the key philosophies of the practice is to ensure that as many services as possible are delivered within the local community.
Dr Martin Read-Jones, senior GP partner said: “By bringing the pharmacy into our practice, we can now offer a wider range of services locally, improving convenience and continuity of care for our patients. Our community-centred approach ensures that patients do not have to travel far for their healthcare needs.”
The practice is already rolling out more surgical services, including carpal tunnel and trigger finger release surgeries, retinal and cataract screenings, and podiatry services. Additionally, there are plans to introduce echocardiogram services, health visitors, social prescribers, and health and wellbeing champions.
Leanne Lawrence said: “It was a pleasure to support Hastings House through this acquisition, which will have a tangible impact on healthcare delivery in Wellesbourne and the surrounding area. This move means the practice is perfectly positioned to meet the needs of the growing local population.”
Leanne Lawrence E: leanne.lawrence@lodders.co.uk T: 01789 206134
Leanne Lawrence, Dr Martin Read-Jones, Dr Katie Lennon
Securing investment for
rapid growth
Lodders worked with Oxford Online Pharmacy and Headpoint Advisors to take in investment from Rockpool Investments, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the family-owned pharmacy chain, founded in 1925. Under the leadership of CEO Stuart Gale, the business has transitioned into an online healthcare platform, offering privately prescribed medication and healthcare advice across the UK.
The investment aimed to accelerate Oxford Online Pharmacy’s growth, advance its technology infrastructure, and expand its leadership team. It will also enhance the company’s ability to meet rising demand for online pharmacy services, particularly in the weight loss sector.
Stuart Gale commented: “Having not secured external investment before, we were closely supported by Lodders throughout the whole process. Lodders guided our management team through, ensuring everyone understood the often-complex legalities. The team was patient and highly organised, providing sensible solutions and expertise to help us overcome obstacles and achieve the very best outcome, whilst ensuring our business maintained its core values, heritage and legacy. We really appreciate Lodders’ support with this deal – the level of service was exceptional.”
Over the last year – and 100 years since the business was established - Oxford Online Pharmacy has doubled its sales and recruited a roster of new talent and
Fuelling a successful deal
Lodders joined forces with Headpoint Advisors to advise the owners of Berkshire-based heating oil supplier and independent family business Pinnock Brothers on its sale to AIM-listed fuels distributor NWF Fuels.
It is the second sale of an oil distribution business Lodders has made to NWF –the UK’s third-largest dedicated fuels and lubricants supplier – having acted for the owners of Oxfordshire fuel business Sweetfuels on its sale to NWF in 2022, again alongside Headpoint Advisors. The addition of Pinnock Brothers to NWF’s business is aligned with its strategy of consolidating the fragmented fuels market and expanding geographically.
Graham Spalding, partner and head of Lodders’ Business Services group, said:
“As always, our focus was on securing the very best price for the client and the result provides them with an excellent return, in recognition of all their years of hard work. Being fully embedded in the Thatcham community, it was important to the family that the deal preserved the 150-year legacy of the business.”
expertise to its team. In August 2025, the business celebrated the opening of a new 12,000 sq ft warehouse in Banbury, marking its 100th anniversary in style.
Although the business has pivoted its approach to operate as an online pharmacy, Stuart is committed to ensuring the values instilled by his grandfather remain at the heart of the business:
“My vision is to combine our traditional values of high quality, old-fashioned customer service, expert advice, and a determination to help, with the convenience and discretion of the internet. This means we can ensure every patient gets the best possible user experience –safe in the knowledge they are dealing with a trusted source.”
Graham Spalding E: graham.spalding@lodders.co.uk T: 01789 206162
A changing landscape for
farmers
The landscape for farmers is changing rapidly. Funding streams are shifting to a ‘public money for public good’ model, and farmers and land managers are being rewarded for doing more to improve the environment whilst producing high quality food and other products. For many forwardthinking landowners there is also a drive for diversification to provide new and sustainable income streams, including from renewable energy and biodiversity net gain.
Creating habitat banks
England’s biodiversity net gain legislation (BNG) is world-leading and demonstrates that nature, recovery, growth and sustainability can thrive together.
A core part of the legislation involves the creation of ‘habitat banks.’ Landowners enhance the habitats of their land, resulting in a gain in biodiversity; these gains (measured in units) can then be sold to developers who need to discharge their BNG planning condition that requires them to secure a net gain in biodiversity.
Habitat banks must be registered on the Biodiversity Gain Sites Register, managed by Natural England.
One of the latest BNG habitat banks to be registered is at Edstone Park in Wootten Wawen, situated just outside Stratford upon Avon and owned by the Haimes family.
The habitat bank covers almost 20 hectares of historic parkland, and the 30-year agreement will involve enhancing the habitat to increase its structural diversity and species-richness. This will include adopting a site-wide approach to tree management and planting, ensuring variation between age cohorts and ensuring longevity of the oldest trees. There will also be areas of understorey planting to enable the development of a woodland copse. In other areas, management and planting will aim to improve the 3-dimensional structural variation of the habitats present.
Lodders advised on all the legal aspects, including the conservation covenant between the Haimes family and RSK Biocensus Ltd, the responsible body. It is the duty of the responsible body to ensure that the objectives of the conservation covenant are secured and delivered and to monitor compliance. Day-to-day support is provided by Civity Limited, which supports numerous landowners with similar projects across the country.
For more information, visit: www.civity.co.uk and https://civitynge.com/bng-units-for-sale/bng-units-for-sale-edstone-park/
Victoria Longmore, head of planning and BNG specialist at Lodders commented:
“Lodders has been at the forefront of advising clients on both the requirements and opportunities arising from this emerging legislation and we were delighted to be part of the team supporting Edstone Park. The Haimes family have exciting plans for enhancing the valuable habitats on their land and it will be wonderful to see both the pastureland and the parkland developing under their careful stewardship.”
Victoria Longmore
E: victoria.longmore@lodders.co.uk
T: 01789 206119
Renewable energy is
heating up
Alastair Frew explains why it may be the right time to embrace the opportunities from renewable energy.
With farming facing ongoing financial challenges, many landowners are looking for ways to introduce new income streams to support them, their family and their business. One way of doing this is by supporting the move to cleaner energy and leasing land for solar or battery storage electricity schemes.
Solar panels may not be to everyone’s taste, however they are silent, don’t pump out toxins and now provide more than 20% of Britain’s electricity. We see them on new houses and roof-tops, yet we need many more of them in Britain if we are to really make a change.
This is where farmers can helpand earn extra income too.
Energy companies will rent your land to install solar panels, meaning your unused land will be put to good use. With the help of a solicitor, you can agree when you would like the land back, any agreements and protection for your land, as well as the rent you will be paid. Solar panels sitting on frames with hedgerows criss-crossing the farm will also bring wildlife right into the heart of the solar development. Clean energy and enhanced wildlife, side by side.
There are also energy companies looking to rent land to build battery energy storage systems, which are networks of shippingcontainer-sized buildings that store electricity until it is needed
by the National Grid. The energy companies only need small areas of land and they’ll be particularly keen if you have land with an electricity pylon nearby.
If you have land that is not fully productive, this could be the right time to explore your options and give your land a new purpose. Lodders has helped many clients to start their solar or battery storage journeys, guiding them through the process and protecting their interests.
Alastair is a partner at Lodders and head of our Renewables team.
Alastair Frew E: alastair.frew@lodders.co.uk T: 01789 206117
Leveraging change as an
opportunity for early succession planning
Farmers and rural business owners across the UK have spent the past year trying to navigate the changes announced in Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ 2024 Budget and what they mean for their estates. Lodders has been working closely with clients across the rural sector to provide strategic estate planning support and expertise.
Here, our private client specialists outline the key changes and provide top tips for securing long-term business continuity across generations.
For the rural business community, the key changes to capital taxation announced in the Budget were the new rules surrounding Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Relief (BR) with combined reliefs at 100% capped at £1m and 50% available on any excess.
However, it is important to remember that farmers will still have their inheritance tax (IHT) allowance of £325,000 plus a £175,000 residence nil rate band allowance available in certain circumstances. This gives a total of £1.5m available before IHT becomes payable.
Married couples will have their combined IHT thresholds and residence nil rate band allowances of up to £1m, along with the combined APR/BR allowance, giving a figure of up to £3m before IHT is payable.
Estate planning
top tips
If you have not yet engaged with succession planning, here are some key points to consider:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
For assets exceeding £1m, farm businesses should consider transfers to the next generation at least seven years before death to maximise inheritance tax efficiency, rather than relying on passing assets via a will. Gifting business assets during your lifetime can offer an effective vehicle for transferring them to the next generation in a tax-efficient manner, whilst ensuring continuity and control.
For married couples, there may be the option to restructure wills to ensure that assets qualifying for APR or BR on the first death pass to the next generation rather than to the surviving spouse, thereby minimising the value held in the latter’s estate. Equalising business assets between spouses may also help secure relief on the first death and maximise the overall available reliefs.
You may wish to explore Family Investment Companies (FICs) – an alternative to trusts. These are private limited companies established with the purpose of managing family wealth and are emerging as a popular inheritance tax planning strategy amongst high-net-worth families.
Reviewing partnership and business structures may facilitate a smooth transition of equity in the business, whilst preserving some level of control over assets and potentially, income, for the parents through appropriate share or voting structures.
Evaluate your pension and retirement planning. From April 2027, unused pension pots will become chargeable to inheritance tax upon death. Therefore, you should consider drawing down your pension pot and gifting excess income to the next generation.
Early is better
The Budget certainly brought challenges for business owners and will require re-evaluation of existing estate and succession plans. However, with specialist legal advice and appropriate preparation at an early stage, many of the potential inheritance tax liabilities can be managed and mitigated in such a way as to reduce the overall liability. Indeed, there are structures that can be utilised, and Lodders can work alongside your existing tax adviser to structure your affairs in the most effective way for you, your family, and your business.
Oliver
01789 339126
one year on Birmingham:
September 2024 marked our move to 1 Newhall Street, with our brand new office right in the heart of the city. Since then, Lodders’ presence in Birmingham has gone from strength to strength, with new connections on our doorstep.
We asked some of our Birmingham team how they have found the first year at 1 Newhall Street.
Leanne Lawrence: “It has helped me to have an easily accessible city centre base for seeing clients and contacts, all in very modern surroundings with state-of-the-art office equipment.”
Heidi Brennan: “It is great being back in the heart of Birmingham’s business district, seeing lots of familiar faces arounds town, and feeling on the doorstep for clients to pop in.”
Vivienne Middleton: “1 Newhall Street brings a plethora of benefits for our clients, colleagues, and our professional contacts. From knowledge sharing amongst the teams, the ability to host conferences and events, to the modern working facilities provided, it is a pleasure to work from these premises.”
Susan Greenshields: “It’s great having the office on one open level with everyone together, as you can interact more freely with work colleagues. The new office oozes professional business vibes with our spacious reception and events area and brand-coloured meeting rooms.”
Baldish Khatkar: “The central location is buzzing. The space and atmosphere in the modern open plan setting, and being amongst colleagues from across the teams, is refreshing and welcome.”
Kyran Shuker: “Since moving to our new office in the centre of Birmingham, I have noticed a buzz within the office – the atmosphere creates a pleasant and collaborative working experience. In addition to that, I am seeing a positive correlation with the client service we can offer.”
In February, we were joined by more than 150 friends and clients of the firm to celebrate the opening of our new office. Guests were welcomed by the award-winning Nero String Quartet and treated to delicious canapes from The Wild Gourmet, as well as a champagne reception and well-stocked bar looked after by Wildfire Events.
Steve Allen as board adviser Lodders welcomes
We were delighted to welcome Steve Allen to the team earlier this year as a Board Adviser, supporting our continued growth in Birmingham.
Steve brings with him a wealth of experience and insight, having previously served as Head of Office at Mills & Reeve in Birmingham. His strong legal background is complemented by a deep understanding of the region’s business landscape, shaped during his time as President of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.
Respected in the region
An active and respected figure in the local community, Steve currently serves as Chair of the Your City & Metropolitan Hospitals Charity. He is also a Trustee of the Aston University STEM Education Academy Trust and the Aston University Mathematics School, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to education and community development.
At Lodders, in addition to advising on strategy, Steve has taken on an ambassadorial role, working with the firm’s Birmingham-focused partners to turbo charge Lodders’ growth.
Delivering a progressive strategy
Commenting on his appointment, Steve Allen said:
“I’m delighted to be joining the team at Lodders at such an exciting time in the firm’s development. Lodders has an ambitious growth agenda led by a dynamic and collaborative leadership team underpinned by specialist legal teams. I look forward to working with the partners in delivering a progressive strategy that will further enhance the firm’s reputation for providing high quality legal advice to its clients.”
Lodders’ managing partner Paul Mourton added: “We are thrilled to welcome Steve to the Lodders board. In this role, Steve will be focused on raising the firm’s profile and reputation in Birmingham as we continue our growth journey in the city. Steve is incredibly well connected and widely respected in the legal sector and beyond. Not only this, but his values align closely with those of Lodders, particularly in recognising the importance of attracting top-tier talent and high-quality clients. We look forward to working with him as we build a long-term and sustainable presence in Birmingham.”
Steve Allen E: steve.allen@lodders.co.uk
T: 07469 354937
Andrew Wylde, Steve Allen, Graham Spalding
The changing face of the housing sector:
charting the path forward
Property agents, landowners, developers, housebuilders and ecologists came together to discuss the current state of play in the housing sector at Lodders’ Property Conference in May 2025.
Sharing expert insights on the housing sector was a range of speakers including keynote speaker Ian Burns, director of Tara Developments, Hamish Simmie, associate director in the Residential Research and Consultancy Team at Savills, and a panel featuring Alexa Culver, general counsel at RSK Wilding, David Haimes, land director at Civity - The Net Gain Exchange, Sam Arthur, senior director of ecology at FPCR, and Victoria Longmore, partner and head of Planning & Highways at Lodders.
Housing sector: current state of play
Ian Burns is director of Tara Developments, which owns Cameron Homes, Keon Homes, and Chasetown Civil Engineering, is a non-executive director of the New Homes Quality Board and a senior advisor to the
Housing Growth Partnership. He provided insights into the current challenges and opportunities in the housebuilding sector.
“The government is keen to improve customer satisfaction levels and wants SME housebuilders to rise to the challenge,” he said. “We’re facing a housing crisis driven by a combination of factors: the planning crisis, increased regulations, rising development costs, land viability issues, skills shortages, and affordability concerns.
“It’s essential that we promote the quality and benefits of new homesnot just in terms of design, but also their smaller carbon footprint. At the same time, we need increased government support, especially for first-time buyers.”
Hamish Simmie shared Savills’ latest market intelligence on the housing sector, highlighting ‘signs of stability’ in the market.
He said: “We expect rate cuts in 2025 to improve affordability. Indeed, market activity is picking up, driving value growth in more affordable markets. However, the supply-demand imbalance persists.
“New build sales rates are stable, but lower, and falling planning consents could pose issues for new home delivery.”
On the policy side, he notes a lot of movement that is set to shape the residential property market: “Housing targets have increased by 23%, the Housing Delivery Test is returning, and there is a new approach to the grey belt. In addition, the New Towns Taskforce has been established, there is a more streamlined process for major infrastructure projects, and additional resource and training is being provided for local authority planning teams.”
Navigating Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
Finally, BNG was explored in detail, with delegates hearing from the expert panel chaired by Lodders partner and strategic land and residential development specialist James Mottram.
James Mottram, Victoria Longmore, Mark Miller
Lodders teams up with
Coventry Rugby Club
Lodders is forging a new partnership with Coventry Rugby Club as it embarks on a new chapter with exciting redevelopment plans on the horizon.
As Coventry Rugby Club’s commercial legal partner, Lodders will be supporting the club both on and off the pitch as the development plans start to take shape.
Our support will also extend to the pitch with Lodders sponsoring the 2025-26 players’ kits and offering further sponsorship in the form of advertising hoardings and matchday programme advertisements.
Paul Mourton, managing partner at Lodders, said the new season marked the beginning of what promises to be a long and prosperous relationship between the business and the club.
“We’re no strangers to sporting partnerships at Lodders and from our very first meeting with Coventry Rugby Club, a strong and genuine connection was immediately evident. The club has a vision and displays drive and ambition. It cares about its community and is a club whose values and principles are really aligned with our own. As well as directly supporting Coventry Rugby Club we are looking to be real ambassadors – introducing our clients and opening more doors to people who could be of benefit to the club. These are exciting times for Coventry Rugby. It’s a club that is going places and, as a growing business ourselves, we are excited to be a part of its journey.”
Earlier this year, the Club announced plans to redevelop the Butts Park Arena, transforming the site into a vibrant multipurpose destination facility. With residential and leisure facilities at the heart of the scheme the club aims to ensure the site is central to Coventry’s cultural scene in the years ahead.
Nick Johnston, CEO of Coventry Rugby Club, said:
“This is a pivotal moment for Coventry Rugby, the city, and our supporters. Welcoming Lodders as our commercial legal partner gives us the expertise and backing to push ahead with our ambitious development plans. The firm shares our vision for growth - both on and off the pitch - and its support will help us deliver facilities and opportunities that will benefit the club, the community, and the city of Coventry for generations to come.”
A new chapter
The 2025/26 season promises to be an exciting chapter for Coventry Rugby. With the league rebranding to The Champ and the addition of new teams to the competition, the year ahead presents a fresh challenge for the squad. A blend of change and continuity defines the team, with notable new signings such as Sam Maunder, Morgan Strong, and Mackenzie Graham joining the ranks, alongside a core group that has been developing at Butts Park Arena in recent years. Key players, including Jordon Poole, Toby Trinder, and David Opoku-Fordjour, have committed to another season with Coventry, adding to the anticipation surrounding how the club will perform in the league.
Head Coach Alex Rae looked forward to the challenges and opportunities of the new season:
“It has been really refreshing as a group. I don’t hear any moaning – it’s just a group of blokes having a good time, working hard, and hopefully building something. We are looking forward to seeing the new players –if they can gel together, form combinations, and if all the hard work we are doing on the training field can be put into a game scenario, the season ahead looks bright.”
Lodders’ John Rouse and Chris Dewes with Coventry Rugby’s CEO Nick Johnston (centre)
Social housing
Addressing the housing crisis through legal advice
With the UK facing a critical shortage of affordable homes, the demand for expert legal support in the social housing sector has never been greater.
In response, Lodders has launched a dedicated social housing service, providing tailored support for registered providers navigating the complexities of the fast-evolving and highly regulated social housing sector.
Property focused legal offering
“The Social Housing team supports registered providers from site acquisition through to plot sales and ongoing housing management,” James Leighfield, senior associate solicitor in the Social Housing team said. “We can help registered providers purchase existing affordable housing units and purchase land to develop themselves, to support the demand for affordable homes.”
“Lodders can also advise on site set up for shared ownership schemeskey to widening access to homeownership, particularly in rural areas. “We want to play a role in tackling the housing crisis and making affordable homes more accessible.” James said.
Empowering providers
The housing management support offered by the service includes tenancy enforcement, tackling anti-social behaviour, and bespoke training services.
“We can advise registered providers on a variety of property litigation matters to assist them in managing their properties effectively,” James said. “We have provided training to a registered provider on how to apply their Public Sector Equality Duty under the Equality Act 2010 when considering tenancy enforcement action. Our training, whether onsite or online, helps clients handle legal matters more confidently.”
Lodders’ Social Housing team is committed to driving positive change, providing a highly personal approach to ensure clients feel supported and informed throughout the process.
James Leighfield
E: james.leighfield@lodders.co.uk
T: 01789 206908
Lodders’ Social Housing team: James Leighfield, Josy Haigh and Julie Hodge
Renters’ rights
We preview some of the biggest changes to housing law in decades
Significant reforms are coming to housing law with the Renters’ Rights Bill, and the changes could come into force as early as October 2025. The Bill gives far greater rights to tenants and there is a lot for landlords to digest, as Lodders’ property dispute resolution specialists explain.
Headline changes for landords and tenants
All Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) will be replaced by Assured Tenancies. Unlike ASTs, Assured Tenancies have no fixed term and will usually run from month-to-month.
‘No fault’ evictions (Section 21 notices) will also be abolished. In simple terms, this means that landlords can no longer give tenants two months’ notice to terminate a tenancy without a specific ground to rely on.
The Bill sets out these specific grounds and we highlight some of these in more detail later on in this article.
Tenants meanwhile will be able to give two months’ notice to vacate at any time from the first day of the tenancy.
Under the Bill, landlords will not be able to rely on rent review clauses to increase rent. Instead, a Section 13 Notice must be used to advise tenants of a rent increase, and tenants can ask the First Tier Tribunal to determine if the increase is reasonable.
Landlords will be legally required to join the new Landlord Redress Scheme and must also register themselves and their properties on the Rented Property Portal. There are fines and penalties for failure to do so.
Finally, landlords cannot refuse to house families with children, or tenants who are claiming benefits. Pets are to be allowed unless there is a legitimate reason not to, for example if the property is a flat.
Grounds for possession of an assured tenancy
If you have a property that you rent out, remember that you will no longer be able to use a S21 (no fault) Notice, but there are several new grounds that can help you to end the tenancy if you need the property. Some of these are set out below:
1. If you are selling the property
2. If you or a family member want to live in the property
3. If the tenant is in at least three months of rent arrears
4. If the property was rented to an employee, and the employment has ended and is needed for another
These grounds each come with their own conditions, and it is important to note that many cannot be used in the first year of a tenancy.
To prepare for the new legislation, landlords should review all existing tenancies, identify those that are ASTs and put in place a plan. This should include ensuring you have all the requisite statutory certificates including EPCs, Gas Safety Certificates and EICRs - and that any deposits are protected.
The Lodders team is helping landlords with tenancy reviews and checklists for both existing and prospective tenancies to ensure they are properly set up, and possession can be regained in the future if necessary.
Lauren Hutchinson
E: lauren.hutchinson@lodders.co.uk
T: 01789 206146
Meet
Steve Halkett
Lodders welcomed Warwickshire corporate law specialist Steve Halkett as an equity partner in April 2025 to drive further strategic growth of the firm’s corporate and M&A work.
Steve is building upon the Business Services group’s corporate, M&A and reorganisation offering alongside the firm’s Graham Spalding and Bradley Quin. He is also working closely with Lodders’ existing partners to help the firm realise its ambitious growth plans.
“I was drawn to the strength and breadth of the team at Lodders and the way in which it moves as one, as well as the overall buzz of the firm – I really wanted to be a part of that! In my new role, I am looking forward to working with my fellow partners and the experienced and successful corporate team to cultivate further growth.”
How to prepare your business for a sale
A key part of Steve’s experience is guiding owner-managed businesses through the sale process. This can be a complex and sometimes emotional process with much to consider. But, with the right preparation, you can navigate it smoothly and maximise the value you can extract.
Key considerations:
1. Contracts: Ensure contracts are in writing, have been properly drafted and signed, contain the correct provisions, and actually exist! Long-term contracts with long notice periods and the ability to pass on costs or implement price rises can add significant value.
2. Employees: If your business’s value relies on its employees, consider incentive schemes like EMI (Enterprise Management Incentive) schemes. Aligning key employees with company success helps keep them motivated during and after a sale. Long notice periods and restrictive covenants reduce the risk of sudden departures and prevent employees from poaching important clients, suppliers, and colleagues.
3. Intellectual property: Ensure your business owns or has the ongoing legal right to use all its IP assets, such as copyright, licences, software, code, know how, trade marks and patents. Also, keep a detailed log of all open-source code used (if any) and adhere to the terms of its use. If these rights are not protected, the value of your business could be significantly reduced.
4. Premises: If the location of your business is crucial to its success, ensure you have a long lease for your property and that there are no unfavourable terms for a potential buyer.
5. Change of control clauses: Review your commercial contracts for change-of-control clauses that let suppliers or customers end agreements if ownership changes. Address these clauses early to avoid complications during the sale process.
6. Financial obligations: Check for any bank facilities, grants, or debt that may become repayable upon sale. Ensure these obligations are managed well in advance.
7. Pensions: Be sure to check all employee pension paperwork is in order and compliant and contributions are up to date.
Steve Halkett
E: steve.halkett@lodders.co.uk T: 01789 339112
Paws provisions
pet-nup FAQs
With over half of UK adults owning a pet, it is no surprise that animals are increasingly featuring in discussions around marriage, as well as divorce and separation.
Are pets considered family in the eyes of the law?
Legally, pets in England and Wales are classed as personal belongings or chattels. As such, they are subject to the same property division principles that apply to other personal possessions during divorce proceedings, such as cars and furniture.
What is a pet-nuptial agreement?
A pet-nuptial agreement, often referred to as a “pet-nup”, is a formal agreement between partners which outlines arrangements for the care, ownership, and financial responsibility of a pet should the relationship come to an end.
What might a pet-nup include?
• Who will assume primary custody of the pet
• Financial arrangements for the pet’s ongoing care, for example, vet bills, insurance, grooming, and food
• Visitation or access terms for the non-residential party
Is a pet-nup legally binding in the UK?
Pet-nups are not automatically legally binding in England and Wales. However, courts are increasingly recognising them as statements of intent.
Why make a pet-nup?
A pet-nup can:
• Prevent future disputes
• Reduce emotional strain during separation
• Clarify financial responsibilities
• Protect the pet’s welfare
Vivienne Middleton
E: vivienne.middleton@lodders.co.uk T: 0121 752 4334
Employment Rights Bill A roadmap for the
The government has released its longawaited implementation roadmap for the Employment Rights Bill, setting out a clear timeline for the upcoming changes to employment law.
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April 2026
Summer/Autumn 2025
Strikes
Repeal of the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023. This proposes to remove the power to enforce minimum staffing during industrial action in key sectors including health, transport and education.
Industrial action
Stronger protections from dismissal for workers involved in industrial action.
Aseries of consultations will begin imminently and continue through to 2026. Some of the headline reforms, such as day-one rights to claim unfair dismissal, are not expected to come into effect until 2027.
Here is a summary of the key proposals and dates to make a note of:
Collective redundancy protective award
The cap on protective awards paid to employees who have been made redundant without proper consultation in collective redundancy situations will double from 90 days to 180 days to encourage employer legal compliance during collective redundancy consultations.
Family leave
Day one right to paternity leave and unpaid parental leave (up to 18 weeks per child) for all new employees.
Whistleblowing
Enhanced protections to encourage reporting of workplace wrongdoing without fear of retaliation. Sexual harassment will be added to the list of protected disclosures.
Fair Work Agency
New agency will be introduced to enforce workers’ rights and promote fair treatment. It will oversee compliance with laws on minimum wage, holiday pay, sick pay, and agency worker protections.
Statutory sick pay
Removal of lower earnings limit (£125 per week) and the three-day waiting period.
Trade unions
The threshold for union recognition will be lowered and the trade union recognition process will require employers to provide both physical and digital access to union representatives. Use of electronic and onsite workplace ballots will also be introduced to boost worker participation.
October 2026
Fire and rehire
Employers will be banned from using unfair practices (such as dismissal threats) to pressure staff into accepting less favourable terms.
Social care
Regulations to enforce fair pay across the adult social care sector are set to be established e.g. minimum pay.
Tipping
Employers will be required to consult with staff on tip distribution.
Workplace harassment
Employers will be required to take “all reasonable steps” to prevent sexual harassment including from third parties such as customers, clients or contractors.
Trade unions
Extended rights for union representatives and greater protection for industrial action participants.
2027
Gender pay gap and menopause
Employers with 250 or more staff will be required to publish action plans to close the gender pay gap and support menopausal employees.
Maternity protection
Enhanced dismissal protections for pregnant women and new mothers to safeguard job security during pregnancy, maternity leave and a return-to-work period. Dismissals during pregnancy, maternity leave, or within six months of return will be unlawful unless specific exceptions apply.
Workplace harassment prevention rules
Clearer guidance for employers on how to prevent sexual harassment and what counts as “reasonable steps”.
Bereavement leave
Employees will gain a statutory right to time off following a bereavement. Details on duration and eligibility will be set in the regulations.
Zero hours contracts
Employers will be required to offer guaranteed hours after a probationary period. The changes aim to end exploitative use of zero hours contracts.
Unfair dismissal
Protection from unfair dismissal will be from day one of employment rather than after two years.
Flexible working
Improved rights to request flexible working arrangements to help employees balance work and life.
Ensuring compliance with Employment Rights Bill changes will help reduce the risk of costly disputes and financial penalties.
Damian Kelly E: damian.kelly@lodders.co.uk T: 01789 339110
Family Law team
DWhen
it comes to difficult, personal legal matters, having a solicitor with in-depth knowledge and a supportive approach can make all the difference.
iscreet, caring and informed, Lodders’ Family Law team brings a blend of expertise across divorce, financial settlements, arrangements for children and also domestic abuse matters. Our team works across our Birmingham and Stratford offices – find out more about their individual specialisms below.
Vivienne Middleton, partner
An expert in matrimonial finance and children law, Vivienne supports clients to resolve the most complex financial remedy and children disputes at all stages. She has particular expertise in high-networth matrimonial finance cases, many of which involve pensions, businesses, farms, landed estates and trusts.
Justin Creed, legal director
With more than 30 years’ practical experience, Justin advises clients on a broad range of matrimonial and family matters including financial issues, pre and postnuptial agreements and children matters. His clients are wideranging, from high-net-worth individuals to farming clients and business owners.
Baldish Khatkar, senior associate
Baldish specialisies in divorce, financial matters, children’s work, and pre and postnuptial agreements. She advises and acts for clients from all walks of life and with varying levels of wealth, bringing an empathetic but outcomefocused approach.
Katie Hurst, associate
An associate in the Family Law team, Katie specialises in divorce and financial matters, children matters, and pre and postnuptial agreements. She works with clients who have complex financial circumstances as well as those with straightforward finances who just need help reaching a fair agreement for all parties involved.
Lucy Compton, senior paralegal
Lucy helps individuals deal with all types of private family law matters such as financial remedy matters or disputes over child arrangements
Diverse expertise
Lodders’ Family Law team has the diverse experience to deliver sound judgment and advice, however complex an individual case may be. The team are all members of Resolution, a community of family professionals who commit to a Code of Practice that promotes a constructive approach to family separation that benefits the whole family.
Vivienne Middleton E: vivienne.middleton@lodders.co.uk T: 0121 752 4334
Understanding complex estates
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy, and when the estate they’ve left behind is complex, the probate process can feel especially overwhelming. But what exactly makes an estate “complex”?
A complex estate might involve a blended family, vulnerable beneficiaries (such as young children or those with disabilities), or a large portfolio of assets, which may include property, shares, or overseas interests. Some estates, such as farms, may be asset-rich but cash-poor, making it necessary to sell off assets to release funds for inheritance or other tax liabilities. These factors often introduce legal, financial, and emotional challenges that need careful, experienced handling.
Common hurdles
One of the biggest challenges is managing expectations among beneficiaries, especially where family dynamics are strained. Tax planning can also become more intricate with larger or international estates. Identifying all assets, particularly if records are incomplete or a will is missing, can cause delays. In some cases, disputes may arise that require mediation or legal resolution.
1. 2.
Top tips for navigating complex estates
Locate the will early. This helps clarify the deceased’s wishes and can avoid unnecessary conflict.
Get professional advice. In complex cases, having the right legal and financial support from the outset can save time and cost later.
3. 4.
Communicate clearly. Keep beneficiaries informed throughout to manage expectations and reduce misunderstandings.
Be realistic about timelines. Complex estates often take longer to administer. It’s important to allow for this.
Complex probate can be challenging, but with calm, careful guidance, it’s possible to navigate even the most complicated estates. If you think you may be dealing with a complex estate, don’t hesitate to speak to a member of Lodders’ expert Probate or Dispute Resolution team, who can support you through the process.
Anjali Narshi E: anjali.narshi@lodders.co.uk T: 01789 206137
Four private client specialists join Lodders’ partnership
Over the last year, we are delighted to have welcomed four new partners to the Private Client team at Lodders, with two new appointments and two promotions.
Private clients are at the heart of our business at Lodders. With one of the largest teams in the Midlands, we have earned a national reputation and top-tier rankings in both Chambers and the Legal 500, for our support on all aspects of private client law. In the Chambers’ High Net Worth Guide 2025, the team ranked in Band 1 for Private Wealth Law in Coventry and the surrounding areas – the only firm in the region to achieve this top-tier ranking.
Dawn Oliver, based in our Cheltenham office, specialises in estate and lifetime planning. She supports a range of clients, from business owners to farmers and landowners, and is committed to expanding Lodders’ private client
offering in the region. In February 2025, she was made an equity partner to drive the strategic growth of the firm’s private client services.
“We have a massive opportunity to develop our private client offering, building on the fantastic reputation the team already has in the market. Therefore, I will focus on expanding our private client offering from our Cheltenham and Stratford offices, where we provide a discrete and bespoke service for all our private clients.” Dawn said.
In November 2024, we welcomed Michelle Gavin as a partner in the Private Client team. She specialises in helping clients to put their personal affairs into good order. Michelle is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and The Association of Lifetime Lawyers.
In July 2025, chartered legal executive Vicki Gulliver was promoted to partner in the Private Client team. Having started at Lodders in an administrative role, trained with the firm, and progressed through the ranks to become head of the Probate team and now to partner, Vicki is a true Lodders success story and a shining example of our commitment to ‘growing our own.’
Sharon Crosby was also promoted to the partnership in July 2025. As head of the Care and Capacity team, she specialises in the preparation of wills and LPAs, as well as making applications to the Court of Protection where an individual no longer has capacity to make decisions. She is a full member of STEP and The Association of Lifetime Lawyers and was awarded a Distinction in the STEP Advanced Certificate in Advising Elderly Clients.
Dawn, Michelle, Vicki, and Sharon join Louise Igoe, partner and head of the Private Client team, and partner John Rouse.
Michelle Gavin, John Rouse, Sharon Crosby, Dawn Oliver, Vicki Gulliver, Louise Igoe
What is financial abuse?
Financial abuse can take many forms, from obvious theft or fraud, to being overcharged for services, pressured into giving gifts, coerced into changing a will or entering contracts, or being the victim of predatory marriage.
The misuse of a lasting or enduring power of attorney also falls within this definition.
A growing concern for families
Financial abuse is a particular concern where a person has lost capacity and is no longer able to manage their own affairs. It often falls to family members to safeguard their loved one’s finances and welfare, sometimes in challenging or emotionally charged circumstances.
Spotting the signs of financial abuse
Financial abuse is one of the most prevalent forms of abuse affecting elderly and vulnerable people today. It is not always easy to spot and is often carried out by those in positions of trust.
Recent research by the Society for Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) revealed that 70% of UK legal professionals have come across financial abuse. More than 40% said cases have increased in the past two years, and 82% expect demand for mental capacity advice to rise.
STEP’s “Spot the Signs” campaign raises awareness of the warning signs, which may include sudden changes in a person’s finances or behaviour, reluctance to speak in front of a particular individual, or signs that someone is becoming unusually controlling or isolating.
What attorneys need to know
Financial abuse is not always deliberate. Attorneys acting under a lasting or enduring power of attorney may unintentionally overstep their authority. For example, gift-giving on behalf of the donor may seem harmless, but strict rules apply. Even well-meaning gifts can be unauthorised if they fall outside what the law allows.
Attorneys must always act in the donor’s best interests and should seek legal advice before making financial decisions on their behalf.
Raising awareness and seeking advice
Awareness is the first step in prevention. If you are supporting a relative who no longer has capacity and have concerns about their financial position or your role as an attorney, specialist legal advice can make all the difference.
Sharon Crosby
E: sharon.crosby@lodders.co.uk
T: 01789 206111
100
100 defibrillators and counting!
In October 2024, the Lodders Charitable Foundation (LCF) chose three new charities to support, one in each of our three regions.
The Public Hearts Defibrillator Campaign was chosen by the LCF as its Cheltenham charity, due to its amazing lifesaving work across the town.
The Campaign began in 2018, when the town centre had no defibrillators. Since 2019, when the Campaign funded the first public access defibrillator in Cheltenham, the charity has gone on to supply 100 publicly accessible defibrillators, as well as keeping them maintained so they are ready to use in an emergency.
The Public Hearts Defibrillator Campaign has saved several lives and we look forward to working together over the next few years to ensure everyone in Cheltenham can easily find and access a defibrillator in their time of need.
Keep an eye out for more information about our future fundraising plans!
The perfect
match
Lodders is delighted to announce a partnership with The Padel Directory – the home of UK padel.
The Padel Directory is the most comprehensive list of padel courts across the UK. Through the two-year partnership, Lodders will serve as the directory’s official legal partner, with padel clubs seeking legal advice referred to the firm.
Padel clubs can benefit from all areas of Lodders’ specialist expertise, whether it is from the firm’s experienced Business Services solicitors or its Real Estate experts.
Padel is a racket sport that is growing in popularity across the UK. It uses a similar scoring convention as lawn tennis but is played on courts around a third smaller.
The partnership between Lodders and The Padel Directory is an ideal pairing, as partner and head of the firm’s Business Services group Graham Spalding explains: “We are excited to be partnering with The Padel Directory as its official legal partner. As the popularity of the sport grows at an incredible pace, and an increasing number of clubs open courts, it is an exciting time for padel.”
George Modler, co-founder of The Padel Directory says:
“The Padel Directory is extremely excited to partner with Lodders and to have the opportunity to ensure legal clarity is provided to padel clubs, businesses, and also the general playing community. We carefully select our partners with the goal of forming a long-term relationship and the real human approach at Lodders stood out to us. If you or your business need any form of legal advice/support, please do not hesitate to reach out. See you on court!”
Find out more: www.thepadeldirectory.co.uk
Bumper crop of promotions
We are delighted to announce several promotions across the firm, including four new partners and three new legal directors.
Path to Partnership
Four lawyers successfully completed our inaugural “Path to Partnership” programme – a 12-month leadership course designed to develop future leaders within the firm.
Vicki Gulliver in the Private Client team, Sharon Crosby in the Care and Capacity team, and Dan MacLeod and Lee Thompson in the Real Estate group join the Lodders partnership which is now made up of 27 partners.
The cohort was the first to experience our fresh approach to partnership development, which combines internal practical training sessions and events with an external training programme led by executive coach Steve Weiner and colleagues of London-based, SW Learning.
Grace Walton, people and culture director at Lodders, helped to design and launch the programme.
Grace said: “This programme represents a real shift in how we support career progression at Lodders. Rather than simply being told they are ready for partnership, our participants experienced a year of formal development that has truly prepared them for the responsibilities ahead. This approach creates a clear and supportive pathway to partnership and is truly unique for a firm of Lodders’ size and scale. Indeed, SW Learning regularly delivers similar training to prestigious multinational law firms including those in the ‘Magic Circle.’ The cohort fully embraced the opportunity, built strong cross-team relationships, and emerged as confident, capable leaders.”
Across the firm
Our congratulations go to the following individuals who all received promotions this year:
Promoted to legal director: Nicky Beach (Agriculture), Sam Amphlett (Real Estate) and Sarah Hawkins (Private Client)
Promoted to senior associate: James Anderson (Agriculture), Chris Mills (Real Estate), Nicky Vernon (Business Services) and Jenny Russell (Private Client)
Promoted to associate: Kyran Shuker (Dispute Resolution), Lisa Podmore (Real Estate), Ellen Conry (Town and Country Homes), and Kimberley Brookes (Agriculture)
Promoted to senior paralegal: Lorna Scott (Real Estate) and Phoebe Hill (Private Client)
Promoted to paralegal: Nathalie Laurente (Family)
Promoted to onboarding manager: Jamie Fall (Central Services)
Promoted to risk & data protection manager: Tom Hughes (Central Services)
Promoted to events executive: Riona Moriarty (Central Services)
Grace Walton
E: grace.walton@lodders.co.uk T: 01789 206161
Dan MacLeod, Vicki Gulliver, Sharon Crosby, Lee Thompson
Celebrating
our Mental Health First Aiders
At Lodders, we are committed to looking after our staff as we acknowledge that without them, we would not have the successful business and culture we have built.
Our business prides itself on caring for our staff in both their work and personal lives. To provide further support, we have now trained eight new Mental Health First Aiders across the firm. The training took place in person over the course of two days, with two experts from Mental Health First Aid England coming in to mentor our team. During the training they learned more about what mental health is, influencing factors, common mental health conditions, and how to support individuals experiencing mental ill-health or crisis.
This group has worked together to plan wellbeing walks, drop in coffee sessions, gardening competitions, seed swaps and even an Easter egg hunt around the office. All of these were planned with the aim of bringing people together, and getting people talking, because after all, a problem shared is a problem halved.
In our offices, we have also introduced the ‘thank you box’, where colleagues can send thanks to one another, just to show some appreciation for the little things. We celebrated National Pet Day by sharing our cutest pet pics to put smiles on faces, learned to look after ourselves with mindfulness and sleep sessions, and celebrated Pride Month and Mental Health Awareness week with our ‘Wear it Green’ day and greenthemed quiz.
Our Mental Health First Aiders are keen to enhance the supportive culture we already have here at Lodders and be there, even if it’s just to listen, when people need it most, helping to make our offices a friendly and welcoming place to work.
We are proud of Clare Tyas, Gemma Knight, Olivia Margetts, Rebecca Warner, Amita Chauhan, Sharon Crosby, William Elson, Baldish Khatkar and Kimberley Brookes who are now always on hand to support our staff when needed.
A new look for Kenilworth Show
The Kenilworth and Moreton shows are regulars in the Lodders events calendar and visitors to our stand are always assured of a warm welcome.
Under the guidance of Lodders’ events executive Riona Moriarty, we decided to freshen up our marquee for the 2025 shows to make it even more inviting and relaxing.
Changes included an onsite barista making fresh coffees all day (the flat whites were very popular!) and a free bar with a great range of locally sourced drinks. If anyone was feeling peckish,
our buffet breakfast and lunch provided the energy needed to explore the rest of the show. There was also a wide range of rustic furniture and comfy armchairs, giving visitors the chance to put their feet up for a while.
One thing we didn’t change though was the doggy photobooth, which proved as popular as ever.
Networking at all levels
Here at Lodders, we always appreciate the chance to get out and about and catch up with our contacts, both old and new. We’re also keen to nurture our talent and help our people to progress.
We’re proud that many of our team have taken their own initiative to set up various networking events, in and around Stratford and Birmingham, to bring their networks together and contribute to the progression of other professionals.
Our Stratford Business Lunch series launched in 2024, with lunches every quarter and attracting business owners from all sectors, as well as business leaders and experienced professionals. Over in Birmingham, a group of experienced solicitors and associates launched our Leaders of Tomorrow networking group. These fun and
sociable events have seen a tight-knit group of up and coming professionals come together regularly to socialise and build working relationships to aid in their development. From bowling, to darts and virtual clay pigeon shooting, the events are thoroughly enjoyed by all. For younger professionals, we created the Stratford Social as the perfect opportunity for those who are new to networking, providing a relaxed and fun environment over drinks, pizza and the occasional quiz.
If you’re interested in coming along, please do keep an eye on the events page on our website.
The right advice as the landscape changes
For nearly 240 years, Lodders has provided dependable and supportive legal advice in an ever changing landscape.
Our tailored, personal counsel delivers essential legal clarity with human understanding, for your business, land, property and life.
Lodders Solicitors LLP
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