Mr Taylor first joined the Borders-based firm as a trainee solicitor in 2016, before progressing to associate.

He said: “I’m delighted to take up the role of director, especially during such an exciting time for our firm. I’m excited by the opportunity to lead and shape the future of Hastings Legal and our fantastic team.”

Abby Taylor, who joined Hastings Legal as a trainee solicitor in 2021, has also recently completed her traineeship and become an NQ solicitor. She has experience in conveyancing and private client work, including wills, powers of attorney and executries.

Ellen Pate, who joined the firm in 2023, is also about to begin her traineeship having recently passed the diploma in professional legal practice at Robert Gordon University.

Hastings Legal has also appointed two new paralegals over the summer, Jane Riddell and Julie Mason. Ms Riddell has over 30 years’ experience working for solicitors across the Borders and Ms Mason is currently undertaking her wills, trusts & executries paralegal accreditation.

The firm has also hired a new head of marketing, Abby Fraser-Davidson. She said: “Having worked in the property and marketing industry for several years, I am excited to have joined the Hastings Legal team to work with such a recognised, forward-thinking and friendly local company.”

This summer saw the firm open a new office on Coldstream High Street. The new office hosts ‘Hastings First Gallery’, displaying artwork of esteemed local artists such as Luke Bachelor, Tom Cooper and Eliane Henderson.