TWO senior solicitors have been recognised for their loyalty and expertise by a legal firm.

Sally Hare, head of residential conveyancing, and family lawyer Jane Fiddes, have become associates at BHP Law, which has offices in Darlington, Durham and Stockton.

The firm launched the associate position in 2001 as part of a career structure that starts at trainee solicitor level and peaks at equity partner.

Ms Fiddes has worked at BHP since it merged with Harvey and Marron, in 2006, and recently qualified as a children's representative on the Law Society Children Panel.

She said: “I feel valued to have been given the associate title and I’m excited about the responsibilities that come with my new position.”

Ms Hare joined BHP in May last year, and was made team leader of a 16-strong conveyancing department within two months.

She said: “Being made associate is an acknowledgment of your long-term commitment to the firm, and I am delighted with mine and the team's progress.”