Roger lays down the law after 50 years

ALL change . . . Steve Hartley (left) is welcomed to the firm by Roger Hinchliffe

AFTER nearly 50 years serving the legal and business community of Oldham, founding partner Roger Hinchliffe is retiring from the borough’s largest law firm Pearson Hinchliffe.

Mr Hinchliffe, from Delph, has seen many changes over the years but remains confident that the drive and ambition of Oldham’s next generation of entrepreneurs will push forward its success.

He said: “Oldham has a lot going for it and can emerge from the current economic climate stronger and better built for business.

“These are challenging times for us all. During my career I have seen many changes, not only to the law but also to the businesses in and around Oldham.

“It has been my pleasure to work closely with many of the biggest companies in the area and I am confident that Steve Hartley, my successor, can bring his expertise to them.

“Mr Hartley brings a wealth of experience and dynamism. His clients value his rounded legal experience, commitment and the close working relationship and good rapport he develops.”

Mr Hartley (40), from Wilmslow, has been working alongside Roger for the past year to enable a seamless transition.

He said: “Oldham is developing and changing. The town has a strong industrial base but also a lot of emerging electronics, engineering and technology companies.

“The area embraces innovation and change and there is a wealth of good industry and a developing corporate market.”

He will head up the corporate commercial team in Hollinwood, working closely with employment and commercial property partner Mike Pitt and commercial litigation partner Chris Burke.

Mr Pitt said: “Roger’s passion and determination to go the extra mile for clients is legendary. He is steeped in the traditional Oldham values of hard work, loyalty, determination and honesty.”

A familiar and friendly face to many Oldham businessmen, Mr Hinchliffe has headed the team of specialist solicitors in the corporate and commercial department of Pearson Hinchliffe Commercial Law for several years, being responsible for complex business and property transactions, with particular emphasis on corporate transactions, mergers and acquisitions. He is a well-known figure in the East Manchester business world as director of TC Industries, Enterprise Factory Ltd and Manchester Enterprises, as well as giving his time to Business Link North Manchester as chairman for three years.