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Harrogate based IDR Law has announced a £3.25 million growth capital investment from BGF – one of the largest growth capital investors in the UK.

IDR Law is the only UK law firm to specialise solely in the resolution of contentious wills, probate and trust disputes. The majority of the firm’s work is generated by referrals.

The firm’s IDR Network (IDRN) launched last year provides members with an online referral and support space for contentious issues, along with extensive training,  general resources and commentaries.

The deal will allow IDR Law to invest in talent and legal tech, as well as expanding its office network to the Midlands, North East and London.

Martin Holdsworth, founder and CEO of IDR Law, said:

“By its nature, our work is very emotive, so it’s crucial for us to deliver the best possible service to referrers and clients, which is reflected in our exceptional client and referrer NPS scores. We have identified opportunities for significant growth, but we will only take on cases where we genuinely believe we can help someone reach their goals. BGF understood what we are looking to achieve and that it’s essential we continue to do this in the right way.

“Our business is built on strong foundations because of our focus on our people and culture.  From day one, we were set up to work remotely so we could offer our lawyers the opportunity to work flexibly with paid overtime and a healthy balance between work and home. Because of this, we’ve been able to attract the best talent with a 20-strong team based across the UK with 90% of our workforce made up of women. It’s also the most productive and engaged team I’ve experienced working with.”


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New Executive Chef at Swinton Park

Ruth Hansom has been appointed Executive Chef at Swinton Park Hotel near Masham.

Ruth who has worked at The Ritz, The Ledbury and L’Enclume said her aim is to ensure Swinton achieves five star status in the next 12-18 months.

She said:

“I am thrilled to be joining the team on the at Swinton Estate as Executive Chef.  I am excited to showcase the best of Yorkshire’s produce, from the Estate’s own walled garden to the surrounding farms and producers.”

Ruth has redesigned the restaurant kitchens with between 50% and 80% of the food served in the hotel’s Samuel’s restaurant sourced from the Switnon estate.

Dame Susan Cunliffe-Lister, owner of Swinton, said

“We are delighted to welcome Ruth to Swinton Estate as our new executive chef.

“Her vision and enthusiasm for both the food and the process of delivering it – from kitchen design to creating a happy and fulfilled catering team, really stand out.  We are sure she’ll be a huge asset to all of the dining experiences we offer at the Swinton Estate.”

Ruth Hansom, Executive Chef, Swinton Park