A lawyer has finally decided to take his well-earned retirement after 56 years in the field.

Among the highlights of his varied career John Foster-Pegg, of Blanchards Bailey LLP, was at the Old Bailey to hear one of the last death sentences passed.

And the father-of-two, who has served the Stalbridge community since 1978, was instructed by and worked with the novelist, playwright and former barrister John Mortimer QC.

Reflecting on the highlights of his career, the 72-year-old said: “I have always valued my staff and I believe without them I am nothing.

“I have been blessed with loyalty from all I have employed and all my staff have given me 100 per cent and more, coming in early, staying late and working weekends if necessary, always putting clients first.

“I could not have asked for more commitment from them. I never asked them to come in early, they just did.”

Mr Foster-Pegg, who is stepping down at the end of this month, said he is looking forward to spending more time with friends and family, holidaying in Greece and pursuing his hobby of photography. He added: “I have been extremely lucky.

“I have received loyalty from all my many clients over the years, which has resulted in a successful business. I am proud that I have been able to assist them in whatever way I could.”

Alan Horne, chief executive of Blanchards Bailey LLP, said: “John’s legacy is one of commitment and dedication to clients, always putting them first.

“He is one of the ‘old school’ of family lawyers from whom we can all learn.

“Our aim is to continue to serve the community with the same dedication that he would wish.”