SOLICITOR Anne Smith has been awarded a Post Graduate Diploma in Family Law from Manchester Metropolitan University.

Anne, who has worked in solicitors' offices since she was 19, always regretted never attempting to gain a university degree.

Nine years ago she made the decision to take a law degree at the University of Central Lancashire and then followed it up with a legal practice certificate course at Manchester Metropolitan, which she passed with commendation. After training with Joe Egan Solicitors in Mawdsley Street, Bolton she qualified as a solicitor in 1999 -- the same year as her 40th birthday.

Anne, married with two children, has been practising family law with the firm since her training began in 1997.

She said: "Joe has always taken a personal interest in promoting his employees through the ranks, even going as far as the lend me the money, interest free, to fund my legal practice certificate."

"The support I have received from this firm has enabled me to now consider continuing on to a Masters degree, the benefits of which can only strengthen the excellent quality of service our clients already receive."

Joe Egan Solicitors are also based on the High Street in Little Lever.