ONE of Worcestershire's longest serving solicitors has retired.

QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright bade a fond farewell to Roy Dursley as he left the firm to begin his retirement after 54 years in the county's legal world. Mr Dursley began his career in 1961 as an articled clerk at Higgs and Son in the Black Country and after five years joined Thursfield and Adams in its Kidderminster office before moving to run its Stourport office in 1970.

In 1976, he moved to Worcester to work at Alexander and Co. Mr Dursley practised primarily in conveyancing both residential and commercial and dealt with Wills, Probate, partnership and private company matters. He joined QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright in 2011 when Alexander and Co closed.

Outside work, Mr Dursley was captain of Bewdley Rowing Club and a crew member in the club's very successful Elite Eight, which won at numerous regattas throughout the country and reached the semi finals at Henley Royal Regatta in the Thames Cup.

Later he played rugby for Kidderminster Carolians, occupying the tight head prop position in the first team. He later became president of Carolians for two years during which time the club reached the semi-final of the Pilkington Shield twice.

Cyril Arridge, managing partner of QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright, said: "Roy is a true gentleman who was well liked and respected by his clients and his colleagues. We shall miss having him at the firm, but are delighted that he has agreed to act on a consultancy basis for us."

Mr Dursley added: "The decision to retire has not been an easy one. I have always enjoyed the job and found assisting clients to satisfactorily conclude their business fulfilling and rewarding. I will certainly miss the association with many clients who have remained loyal over many years.

"I am also very grateful to the partners and staff of QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright for the kindness and generosity they have shown me throughout the intervening years and particularly in their retirement gifts."