(Picture – left Natalie Bell, centre Elizabeth Atkinson, right Rebecca Toppin)

Carlisle girl Elizabeth Atkinson has been admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales.

Elizabeth started her training with Bell Park Kerridge in September 2006 working part time along with her studies. Elizabeth has qualified into the Property Department specialising in agriculture. She also undertakes a variety of residential and commercial property work with BPK Director Duncan Carter.

Elizabeth attended Trinity School, before completing her first degree in Sheffield. She then completed her academic legal training at Northumbria University before becoming a Trainee at Bell Park Kerridge. Elizabeth is a keen runner and will be taking part in the Cumbrian Run in October for the Eden Valley Children’s Hospice.

Following in her footsteps are second year trainee solicitor, Natalie Bell and first year trainee solicitor Rebecca Toppin. Natalie qualifies as a solicitor in July next year and Rebecca started her training contract only a few weeks ago.

Managing Director, James Bell said “We are delighted to offer Elizabeth a position as a solicitor, bringing our total to 9 solicitors. Elizabeth has proved herself to be a valuable asset to the firm. There is much doom and gloom out there, but we have found business to remain buoyant so we remain committed to develop staff for the future.

The latest Solicitors Regulation Authority monitoring visit on 5 July 2008 described Bell Park Kerridge as “providing a very good standard of training to its trainee. The firm’s work lends itself to the trainee developing both breadth and depth of experience. This firm provides a well organised and supportive environment in which to undertake a training contract. The standard of supervision is very high”