A solicitor is flying high after scooping a major accolade for his performance in a series of gruelling professional exams.

Matthew Rogers, who works at Cartmell Shepherd, was presented with the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners’ (STEP) Worldwide Excellence Award.

It was given to the STEP candidate who achieved the highest mark nationally in STEP’s advanced certificate in will preparation, part of a series of exams covering wills, estates, trusts and succession planning.

Mr Rogers said: “STEP is the leading organisation for solicitors, accountants and other professionals working in wills, estates, trusts and succession planning.

"I am delighted to have received this award, and to be a part of an organisation of professionals committed to continually enhancing their knowledge in order to provide superior advice and service to their clients.

Deborah Flynn, director and head of department, said: “Matthew’s dedication to high professional standards and his studies make him a fantastic member of our team.

“This award is a reflection of his ongoing hard work, and a mark of his professionalism and skills as a private client solicitor.”

Mr Rogers joined Cartmell Shepherd in September 2013 and qualified as a solicitor in September 2015. He specialises in all aspects of wills, estates, trusts and powers of attorney and has a particular interest in wills and estate planning for agricultural clients.

He works closely with the firm’s agricultural property team at the Rosehill office in Carlisle.