From office junior to judge

NEW judge: Keith Etherington

WHEN Keith Etherington joined a firm of Oldham solicitors as a tea boy he never dreamed he’d end up being a member of the judiciary.

At 16 Keith spent his time brewing up and running errands at Mellor and Jackson in Church Lane.

After studying to become a litigation solicitor at night school and college, and now deals with accident claims, probate, boundary disputes and civil issues.

Now he has been appointed a North of England deputy district judge.

“I am delighted and honoured,” said Keith. “When I started there were some wonderful judges in Oldham, very impressive people and I always hoped I could do what they were doing.

“The Judicial Appointments Commission has worked hard to increase diversity in the judiciary and I hope that my appointment — as a high street, Oldham solicitor with no university degree — is proof that their process is working.”