Holly Richmond, a specialist in equine law, tries out the 8700 - with surprising consequences


I really need a voice-controlled BlackBerry, as the root of my IT issues lies in arthritic fingers, which simply do not like new technology. However, being without the BlackBerry 8700 for a couple of weeks after giving it back, I suddenly realised that it has manoeuvred its way into my working life and I could not manage without it.



One of the problems I have found - the main one, in fact - is the keyboard. I really do need a voice control, and if voice recognition software DragonDictate could link up with Blackberry, that would be my ideal. The only other comment I would make is that it is a bit bulky, and a slimline mobile phone is much more comfortable and safe.



I also feel I may need a separate, smaller device to use as a mobile phone, especially when I am riding. As I am now using my existing mobile phone number for a new Blackberry, I want to see if I can link this in to another mobile phone I have. I do not particularly want to start using two separate numbers.



Since the Gazette sadly insisted upon the return of the BlackBerry, I have been driven to purchase one of my own.

I realised, to my horror, that I am becoming an IT addict. It lets me communicate easily with clients - whether I am in the office or visiting external offices.



We have an increasing client base where it proves its value, in that I can easily receive office emails and respond without the struggle to hear what people are saying where signals are weak.



The size of its screen makes emails easy to manage compared to the email facilities on an ordinary mobile phone, and it is as usable as a laptop in emergencies. I have also found that clients regard it as an interesting topic of conversation.



Holly Richmond is a senior partner at Bristol firm Richmonds