A legal firm has strengthened its team with the appointment of two experienced solicitors.

Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors has welcomed Rob Winder to the company as a Senior Associate, and Sarah Griffiths as a Solicitor.

Rob’s appointment marks a return to the place he started his legal career more than two decades ago.

He is well-known in the area for his charity work and involvement in Rugby Union and Master Rugby League. Last year he was chosen to represent England Masters Rugby League in games against Wales and Ireland.

Rob, who grew up in Penrith before moving to Carlisle, will be based out of the Viaduct House office in Carlisle, specialising in Dispute Resolution.

He said: “I was looking for a change and there was an opportunity to join Cartmell Shepherd, so I jumped at the chance to join the fantastic team here.

“Over the years, I had been in opposition against solicitors from Cartmell Shepherd on some big cases and we have always maintained a healthy professional respect for each other’s knowledge and technical abilities."

Sarah, from Penrith, has decades of experience in law having qualified in 1995, starting her training with international law firm Trowers & Hamlins in London.

She will now be based at the Penrith office.

Sarah said: “You always want to learn more and get better at what you do, and I sense there is a real opportunity to do that at a company such as Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors.

“I came to this very office as an undergraduate to do work experience as the company has always had a great reputation locally and I’m looking forward to continuing to develop my skills by working at such a prestigious law firm.”

Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors has six offices across Cumbria and Northumberland including Brampton, Penrith, Cockermouth, Haltwhistle, and two in Carlisle.

Peter Stafford, Managing Director, said: “Both Rob and Sarah know the industry inside and out, and are excellent lawyers with a wealth of experience between them.

“We are delighted to welcome them to our growing team and we are excited to see how they can develop our business even further.”