NORMAN HART, a partner in BHP Law, has announced his retirement.

He plans to devote more time to his community work with Finchale Training College, Durham Rotary Club, Durham Union Society and the Freemen of Durham and other interests, including gardening, photography and model building.

The 67-year-old former deputy coroner, who now lives in Durham City, was born in Salford, brought up in Dumfriesshire and moved to the North-East when his father, Tom, a former Glasgow Rangers footballer, joined a GP practice in Durham City.

Mr Hart began his career in Darlington in 1969, after being inspired to go into law by Durham University lecturer Leo Blair, the father of former Prime Minister Tony Blair.

He joined LJ Heron and Co in 1971, which became Burt, Hart and Pratt in the mid-Seventies and Blackett, Hart and Pratt in 1993.

John Pratt, Mr Hart’s business partner, said: “It has been a joy to work with Norman. He is an absolute gentleman and that shines through in the way he does the job.

“Many of his clients are also his friends and they will miss him.”

Mr Hart is married to Jennifer and they have two daughters – Fiona and Ailsa.

He plans to continue working for BHP Law as a consultant one day a week.