The University of Bolton’s law department has added respected academic and practising barrister, Stephen Hardy, to its team as its Diamond Jubilee Professor of Law.

A new post at the University, the Diamond Jubilee Professor of Law provides academic leadership for the University’s law programme and develops its research capability. Law is now part of the new Bolton Business School.

Professor Hardy, who has a formidable legal CV in both research and practice, says he joined Bolton for a ‘new challenge’ and because of the ‘University’s spirit of developing the local community’.

As well as bringing a wealth of experience to the role, Professor Hardy also shares the University’s long-held values that education is a right, not a privilege. He added: ‘From a professional perspective, I bring both practical legal experience and scholarship. But on a personal level, I have a commitment and belief that education should be available for all.’

Professor Hardy joins the University from the prestigious 9 St John’s Street Chambers in Manchester where he will carry on practising law part-time, specialising in employment, public and European law. He will also continue to sit as a part-time Tribunal Judge. The new Diamond Jubilee Professor has previously worked at the EU Commission and the European Parliament, as well as a special advisor to UK Government.

His previous academic career is as equally as impressive; gaining his PhD from Staffordshire University, Professor Hardy has worked at the universities of Manchester, Salford and London. He has also authored dozens of books and articles on the issues of employment, discrimination and European law.

Professor Hardy is the latest jewel in the law team’s crown. Earlier this year the University unveiled a new teaching courtroom where students now hone their practical skills. The court was opened by the High Court Judge, Mr Justice Ryder. It is dedicated to His Honour Judge William Morris, the former Honorary Recorder of Bolton, to mark his retirement from the Bench and in recognition of his outstanding service to the people of Bolton and the legal profession.

The courtroom is a facility that Professor Hardy thinks is ‘imperative to the law students’ development’. He said: ‘The new Moot Court is impressive and will be well used – all Bolton law students can be assured that they will appear in it and grow in both their forensic confidence and skills.’