Mr Shulman had worked with Christine Pugh at a previous firm in Leeds for two years.

When he set up Shulmans solicitors, she joined him as his first employee – not only as his secretary but also as the backbone of the new practice.

Now their 29-year business association has come to an end with Christine's retirement.

Mr Shulman said: "When we started, I had to spend a lot of time out getting business and knew that Christine was ensuring clients were looked after.

"She is absolutely reliable, the most wonderful trainer and very professional on her own case work.

"She is greatly respected by colleagues and clients."

Christine's career ended with her specialising in plot sales for the firm's residential development team and qualified as a licensed conveyancer – the equivalent of a conveyancing solicitor – with a team of 14 people.

Shulmans' now 150-strong team turned out in force to celebrate her retirement.