A FORMER solicitor who has been described as a compassionate 'living legal legend' has celebrated his 100 birthday.

Harry Ellis from Bournemouth's East Cliff enjoyed a special party at Hotel Miramar on East Overcliff Drive which was organised by Ellis Jones Solicitors, the Dorset and New Forest law firm which bears his name.

Nigel Smith, managing partner of the firm, described Mr Ellis as a living legal legend' before adding: "If we could bottle just a small amount of Harry’s energy and experience then we would be onto an absolute winner.

"His compassion, integrity and fun of life continues to this day. He is an inspiring and highly respected figure who richly deserves the many tributes received on reaching the age of 100."

Harry began his legal career in Newport, Monmouthshire, where he was born. He was admitted to the roll of solicitors of England and Wales in May 1939 and married his childhood sweetheart, Amy, later that year.

He became a well-known member of the Bournemouth law community after moving to the town and owned various firms including Mitchell and Ellis, Harry Ellis and Co, Ellis, Belcher and Co and, latterly, Ellis Fowler Belcher. The current Ellis Jones was an amalgamation of Ellis Fowler Belcher and Frank Jones and Co. Harry served as President of the Bournemouth and District Law Society from 1973 to 1974 and even after formal retirement, he continued as a consultant to Ellis Jones Solicitors until relatively recently.

Among the many tributes received on his birthday was a letter from Jonathan Smithers, president of the Law Society. He wrote: "You have lived through momentous times and have a lifetime of experience.

"It gives me great pleasure to congratulate you on behalf of the Law Society on your many years of service in the profession."

Paul Naser, who joined Ellis, Belcher and Co, as an office junior in 1966 and later became a partner in Ellis Jones, recalled Harry’s courtesy and calm temperament.

He said: "Harry was a true professional, a very well respected lawyer. He was always formally dressed in a pin stripe suit, shoes made to measure and the bowler hat."

Reflecting on his 70 years in the legal profession Harry, who continues to live in his own flat, said: "I enjoyed the cut and thrust of the legal profession and the camaraderie. They were happy years and I made many friends."