Law firm Ward Hadaway has appointed one of the region's senior legal professionals to its team.

RALPH WRIGHTON, formerly head of construction and engineering at Eversheds, in Newcastle, has joined as partner in the construction and projects team.

He has specialised in construction law for 20 years and has advised on issues related to process and civil engineering, power generation, environmental engineering and construction projects in the public and private sectors, in the UK and overseas.

He has more than ten years involvement in European arbitration and regularly advises on major infrastructure contracts, including education.

Ward Hadaway managing partner Jamie Martin said: "We are delighted that somebody of Ralph Wrighton's calibre, experience and expertise is joining the firm. He will add strength and depth to our existing team, which is very pleased to have him as a member."

Mr Wrighton is a member of the Society of Construction Law and Northern Dispute Resolution and has been recognised in industry titles Legal 500 and Chambers as one of the top construction lawyers in the UK for for a number of years.