THE grandson of a law firm’s founder has joined the business as a newly qualified lawyer.

Philip Askew has joined Teesside law firm Askews Solicitors as an associate solicitor. The firm was founded 76 years ago by his grandfather, Arthur. Philip will work in conveyancing and wills and probate.

His father, David, retired from his position as senior partner last year after being with the firm for 45 years, but continues to work there as a consultant.

Continuing the Askew family’s association with the firm, which has offices in Redcar, Stockton and a new base in Middlesbrough, Philip’s elder brother, Simon, is managing partner.

Philip, who went into law after originally embarking on a career in marketing, said he was pleased to follow the family tradition.

He said: “I am delighted to qualify as an associate solicitor after four years of study and training.

“I am also very pleased that I have been able to do so at the firm where my father and brother work, so that we can continue building upon our established reputation and long history in the area.”

As well as Philip, the firm has welcomed two more newly-qualified lawyers.

He joined the firm as a trainee solicitor in 2007 alongside Philip Masters and Stephanie Sturgeon, who will now both work in Askews’ litigation departments. All three will work in the Middlesbrough office.

Mr Masters and Ms Sturgeon studied law at Northumbria University, while Philip went to York.

Mr Masters said he has fulfilled the dream he has had since he undertook work experience at a law firm at the age of 15.

He said: “I am happy to have qualified after all the hard work, but nothing substantial changes. I shall still be learning and developing my own knowledge and, hopefully, my career here at Askews.

“It is excellent to be retained by the firm, particularly as I enjoy working in such a young and forward- thinking team.”

Ms Sturgeon, who comes from the Tees Valley, said she was pleased to join a company in her native area.

She said: “I am really pleased to have finally qualified after several years of study and am enjoying being based in the new office in Middlesbrough.

“I am looking forward to building on the knowledge that I have gained during my training contract.”