LAWYERS swapped statutes for secateurs in a community event.

A team from Ward Hadaway, which has offices in Newcastle, volunteered to help improve an overgrown cycle path in Hebburn, South Tyneside, during Give and Gain Day.

The 13-strong group joined about 170 workers from companies, including Sage and Northumbrian Water, in the Business In The Community and Groundwork-organised event, finishing the task ahead of schedule.

Assistant solicitor, Rachael McCartney, who works in Ward Hadaway’s employment unit, said: “It was quite a change from a normal working day for us, but everyone really entered into the spirit of the thing and put a lot of effort into it.”

The company has also promoted Liz Hackett, a healthcare associate, as a partner.

Ms Hackett has worked in healthcare since qualifying,, undertaking defendant clinical negligence claims and inquests for NHS Trusts and medical defence organisations.

Jamie Martin, Ward Hadaway managing partner, said: “Liz is extremely hard-working and dedicated and her promotion is richly deserved.”