Inaugural award rounds off national pro bono week

A legal executive at a Leicester law firm last week received the first DLA Paul Nicholls memorial award for pro bono work in the community, which rounded off national pro bono week.

A community group that Faizal Essat advises, the Muslim Burial Council of Leicestershire, received financial support of 3,000 from the fund.

The award was set up by the City firm in memory of its late managing partner.

Mr Essat, who works at Leicester firm Lawson West, said: 'I am overwhelmed and extremely proud to be the first recipient of this prestigious award.'

Cash prizes were also awarded to ADVICE - Action against Domestic Violence in the Community of Exeter - and BETA, which provides educational training programmes to young, disadvantaged people.

Pro bono week saw hundreds of solicitors, barristers and legal executives attend events throughout England and Wales, and forge links with local groups needing their help.

See Editorial