The new starts both gained their law degrees and diplomas in legal practice at Aberdeen University before returning to Inverness, where each secured traineeships with Macleod and MacCallum in June 2019.

Chair of the board Morag MacIntosh said: “At Macleod and MacCallum we recognise the difficulties people have faced during the last 18 months, and it has been a challenging time for our trainee solicitors and their mentors. It is a testament to the hard work and commitment shown by Rory and Gemma that saw them excel throughout their traineeships in such unusual circumstances.”

Ms MacIntosh added: “At Macleod and MacCallum we have always prided ourselves on attracting some of the best homegrown talent to our team, offering our trainees real career prospects whilst being able to enjoy life in the Highlands of Scotland”.