Willans LLP solicitors have announced six lawyer promotions across the firm, including two new partners in their wills, trusts and probate team.

Rated by independent national legal guide The Legal 500, Willans' expert wills, trusts & probate team is one of the largest in the area, with the promotions of Tom O'Riordan and Rachel Sugden taking the partner count in the department to three and the firmwide count to 16.

Simon Cook, partner and head of department, said: "Tom and Rachel have each made a tremendous contribution to the department over the years; I am thrilled to see them both promoted. Both are technically excellent lawyers and fantastic mentors to other members of our team. This recognition is wholly deserved."

Elsewhere in the firm's Chambers UK and Legal 500-rated teams, four lawyers moved up a level.

Litigation and dispute resolution solicitor-advocate James Melvin-Bath has been promoted to senior associate. Senior partner and head of department Paul Gordon said: "James is an exceptionally talented lawyer who has demonstrated absolute commitment to his clients and to the firm."

Solicitors Helen Howes (corporate & commercial), Hayley Ainsworth (employment law & business immigration) and Kristie Silsby (family law) are all promoted to associate.

Managing partner Bridget Redmond said: "It's a pleasure to congratulate our brilliant lawyers on their well-deserved promotions. Each displays the qualities that are at the core of our firm - outstanding legal brains and real client focus. We look forward to watching them all progress further in their careers at Willans."

With more than 100 people now employed at their Cheltenham offices - and having recently achieved a 15th consecutive year of Lexcel accreditation, awarded only to top-tier firms - Willans are a trusted provider of practical and personal legal support, having assisted businesses, people, charities and not-for-profit organisations based locally, nationally and overseas for more than 75 years.