I wonder whether other readers were surprised, like me, when they received their practising certificates for 2007/08.
While I appreciate that time waits for no man, I have to say that my new practising certificate reminds me of a certificate which one might receive for successful completion of a fire-awareness or first-aid course, or for completing a length of the local swimming baths.



Though all these achievements are to be lauded, I would have hoped that the certificate which confirms my entitlement to practise as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court in England and Wales would have carried a little more gravitas.



What was wrong with the old style, whose amendment doubtless necessitated a proportionate part of my practising certificate fee to be paid to a brand-development business?



Coats of arms and heraldic emblems have served this country for centuries; now they appear to be replaced by a number of circles.



I look forward to receiving next year's practising certificate with anticipation.



Adrian Palmer, Cunninghams, Manchester