A WILMSLOW lawyer who first worked at the company as a 14-year-old work experience student has been named 'trainee of the year' in a prestigious awards ceremony.

Chris Reece, who specialises in wills and probate at the Wilmslow office of Chafes Solicitors, is celebrating after picking up an award at the Manchester Legal Awards held on Thursday, March 3.

Chris, 26, saw off dozens of other entrants in the Trainee of the Year category – acknowledged as the most fiercely contested category - to make the shortlist.

Following an initial written submission, he had to undergo a gruelling interview by a panel of judges from the north west legal and business community.

Since entering the competition, Chris has qualified as a fully-fledged solicitor.

Chris undertook a couple of stints of work experience with Chafes when he was 14.

He went on to gain a Law degree before returning in 2010 as a paralegal and continuing to study until he began as a trainee in 2014.

Chris said: “I love what I do so to be recognised for it in this way is the icing on the cake.”

Robert Brindley, partner at Chafes Solicitors, said: “The Manchester Legal Awards recognise the best talent in the north west. Chris is an outstanding member of the team here at Chafes – popular with colleague and clients alike.

"We couldn’t be more thrilled for him.”

Chafes Solicitors is a legal practice offering proactive corporate and personal legal services from its offices in Wilmslow, Alderley Edge and New Mills.