We are looking forward to a momentous occasion as we celebrate our 160th anniversary this weekend.
R Bell & Son, in Victoria Road, has helped thousands of clients during its long and proud history.
The practice was started by Ralph Bell from premises in Church Street, on June 16, 1859.
It is still going strong today and looking forward to continuing to serve clients for many years yet.
The practice’s current senior partners are Diane Brough and Terence Creed, supported by experienced family solicitor Christine Waller and a host of support staff contributing to the firm’s modern day success.
Mrs Brough said: “We are proud of the firm’s heritage.
“It has been our pleasure to serve the people of Hartlepool between us for over 30 years.”
Mrs Brough said a wealth of experience lies behind the firm’s success.
In 1900 Herbert Wright Bell joined his father Ralph in the practice.
Herbert took his Jack Russell dog to work with him every day, a tradition kept up today by Mrs Brough with her faithful spaniel Toff.
Over the years some of the firm’s finest solicitors have been appointed to judicial office.
Herbert Wright Bell was appointed Town Clerk of Hartlepool in 1891. He was made a Justice of the Peace in 1922 and Mayor of Hartlepool in 1926.
It moved to Lower Church Street in 1920, then to Upper Church Street in 1928.
In 1972 the firm relocated to Victoria Road and has been in its current building at Durham House, also in Victoria Road, since 2000.
They specialise in three areas of law – wills, probate and administration of estates; family law; and residential and commercial conveyancing.
Mrs Brough said their personal yet professional service is appreciated by clients as shown by their many thank you cards.
She added: “It’s lovely to be appreciated like that. We have survived two world wars and several recessions.
“And Brexit certainly isn’t going to get in the way.”
We were grateful to have our article published in the Hartlepool Mail. Click here to read the piece in full.