A leading law firm established more than 170 years ago is looking to the future after hiring its first ever three legal apprentices.

Wright Hassall, which is based in Leamington Spa, has welcomed a trio of young professionals on board as the firm looks to create a pipeline of talent for the future.

Connie Bell, 19, from Whitnash, Sophie Hayne, 18, from Rugby and Molly Clarke, 19, from Leamington, are all looking to build a career at Wright Hassall, starting with the two year apprenticeship programme.

Connie will work with the commercial litigation team, Sophie will work with the firm’s commercial solicitors and Molly will work with private clients.

Molly said: “I am really looking forward to my time at Wright Hassall; I can’t wait to work with the private client team, learn about life in the legal profession and take on the challenges that come my way.

“We are all delighted to be given this opportunity at a firm with such a great reputation; it is a brilliant chance for all of us.”

The firm has recruited apprentices before, but never in paralegal roles, and has struck up a relationship with law school CILEx to ensure it attracts the strongest candidates.

CILEx advertised the vacancies on their website and relevant job boards, as well as contacting schools in the region to see if they had suitable candidates who had recently left.

There are set to be more opportunities later in the year for apprentices to join Wright Hassall.

Sarah Perry, Managing Director at Wright Hassall who started as a trainee with the company, said: “It is a real pleasure for us to welcome three bright and eager apprentices on board and offer them an opportunity to start their legal career with us.

“We feel that Wright Hassall is a perfect place for aspiring lawyers to learn their trade and get a feel for the industry, working alongside our talented team of legal experts.

“I am looking forward to seeing Connie, Sophie and Molly’s progression over the next two years.”