A personal assistant at law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has retired after 47 years of service.

Christine Cox, the longest serving employee at the firm, began her career in April 1973 as an office junior in the Chard office before becoming a secretary for a number of solicitors.

In 1977 Christine started working for Managing Director John Cooper and in 1994 moved with him to the Taunton office, which was then situated in Hammet Street. In 2001 she moved to the current offices in Blackbrook Gate.

Christine worked for various fee earners in the divorce and family law team and the private property and agriculture team until her retirement.

Clarke Willmott CEO, Stephen Rosser, said: “This is an amazing milestone and deserves marking in a special way. Christine has seen many changes during her career and our thanks to her for her loyalty, devotion and hard work throughout this period.

“On a personal note, I am very grateful to her for the support she gave to me as Clarke Willmott transitioned from its Somerset roots to the national firm it is now. Current circumstances prevent us from having the full celebration Christine’s career deserves, but I have assured her we will mark the occasion as soon as we can safely do so. 

“In the meantime, a heartfelt thank you to Christine and we all hope that you enjoy a long and happy, well-deserved retirement.”

Mark Buckerfield, a partner in the private property and agriculture team, added: “The firm and legal sector has changed beyond recognition since the 16th April 1973. One constant during that time has been Christine’s dedication to Clarke Willmott. 

“Christine has spent the last 10 years working for both the private property and agriculture and family teams. Her ability to juggle work for multiple fee earners in two different practice areas has been remarkable and a great support for both departments. It has involved a great deal of client contact and she has been a wonderful ambassador for the firm taking a great deal of pride in her work. 

“She will be greatly missed by us all but leaves with our thanks and best wishes for a well-earned retirement.”

Clarke Willmott is a national firm with offices in Bristol, Cardiff, Southampton and Taunton. 

 For more information visit www.clarkewillmott.com