The Journal of the Northern Circuit of the Bar Idencembebr 2020 Rief Interview with Sir Richard Henriques Work Allocation Equality Monitoring

The Journal of the Northern Circuit of the Bar IDencembeBr 2020 rief Interview with Sir Richard Henriques Work Allocation Equality Monitoring

Obituaries for Bob Golinski, John Broadley and His Honour John Morgan

www.northerncircuit.org.uk From the Leader Leader’s Column Lisa Roberts QC, Leader of the Northern Circuit

About a year ago, when the tireless efforts of your led committees and have delivering my final Attorney colleagues who give freely of directly influenced decisions General’s speech at Mess, I their time and energy late into which have enabled many of us joked that I had been reluctant the evening and at the to resume our practices safely to put myself forward as Leader weekend. The series of and effectively. Their work is because I (literally) didn’t have webinars – all free of charge – ceaseless and unsung. But I the stomach for large dinners, will culminate in a rather shall sing their praises. Put nor the liver for gallons of wine. special guest appearance by bluntly, I could not have Hmm, I needn’t have worried. our very own Lord Justice managed a fraction of this year However misplaced my fears of Holroyde who has very kindly without the assistance of the an expanding waistline may agreed to speak to our Circuit Task Force – given with have been then, I ask myself youngsters about all things grace and with love. Thank you. whether, possessed of all that I sentencing. I’m told he knows a know now, I regret my decision thing or two on this topic! Circuit congratulates HHJ to stand as Leader. The answer Thank you, Tim. Louise Bancroft upon her is simple: no. And, in my more appointment as a Senior sanguine moments when The Circuit Race Working Group Circuit Judge, Designated reflection about the good has sent out a comprehensive Family Judge at Preston Crown Circuiteers. To Richard Heap, surpasses exhaustion brought survey for completion by ALL and Family Court; on Nigel formerly of Kenworthy’s about by the bad, I realise that members. It will inform their Poole QC for his appointment Chambers; to Liam Grundy of this has been the best year of invaluable work as they to the High Court bench; on Atlantic Chambers and to HH my life at the Bar. And by some prepare their report in the new Simon Burrow and Neil John Morgan. I saw many margin. It is the best work I year. Please complete the Cadwallader on their dozens of you at the funerals of have done, alongside the finest questionnaire. appointments to the Circuit John Broadley, Bob Golinski brains, helped by the most Bench and on Sally Penni for and Nick Kennedy. Tributes resourceful colleagues and A recent vacancy for an her MBE. But a special word, if I flowed in the days and weeks supported by the kindest applicant of under 7 years’ call may, about the appointment of that followed their deaths and friends. Thank you. It’s been on the Circuit Executive my friend Mark Cawson QC as a we circulated as many as we quite a ride. attracted significant interest. A Specialist Civil Circuit Judge at received so that all may see the sign, if one were needed, that Manchester County Court. Mark high regard, the respect and, My faith in the future of the Bar the importance of being part of is one of several people who above all, the love we all had and, more particularly, the Circuit, its decisions and its stepped up for Circuit this year. for these fine men. future of our Circuit is valuable work, is resonating Mark volunteered to help you epitomised by the 26 pupils louder than ever amongst you all and he did so, not out of My great hope for Circuit in who have just embarked on all. We recently hosted a Mess loyalty to me – we didn’t know 2021 is that when next I see so their Circuit adventure. Their for non-members of Circuit to each other before ‘this’ – but many of you that it is not to beautiful beaming faces have be elected. Large numbers of because he is a good man and mourn our departed but to been a recent Zoom highlight you have contacted us this year he saw that his particular celebrate our ability to be at Mess and pupillage asking to be elected. Some talents were needed: not least together. To be grateful for the webinars. Barely five minutes want the expediency of a Zoom by me, who has none of Mark’s unity, the fellowship and the into pupillage and already Mess without, as one of you expertise in matters business strength that has sustained us volunteering alongside our rather amusingly put it, the and property! Mark, the BPC’s thus far and will continue to do indefatigable EDSM officer ‘pantomime’ of a Grand Court. gain is our loss. But as I have so. My best wishes for a festive Lena Amartey, Training But I have been heartened by said to you, the CTF is for life. season that brings health, Supremo David Temkin and my the reaction of you Thank you for all that you have happiness and peace to you all. marvellous Circuit Junior Alex subsequently. Now that you done for Circuit and for me. And, fingers crossed, a gift- Sutton, by attending national have been elected ‘one of us’, wrapped vaccine. events to encourage future you want to be one of us. You We said ‘À la prochaine’ to HHJ pupils to apply to Circuit. We want to come to more Messes, Mark Brown, who retired as the Lisa Roberts QC recently hosted a ‘stall’ at this to help Circuit by volunteering. Resident Judge of Preston; to Leader year’s Bar Council pupillage fair Come on board. We are happy HHJ Margaret de Haas QC who – a first for Circuit. Hundreds of to welcome you. retired as a Senior Circuit participants and lots of Judge, and to Sir Ernest Ryder wonderful volunteers from Circuit has played a pivotal role as he took up his new post – Circuit who gave up a Saturday this year in shaping policy at a my dream job – as Master of an to persuade the BYTs that there national level. Members of the Oxford college. really is only one place to Task Force – captained practise. A series of webinars brilliantly by my right hand But with great sadness we said for our pupils runs throughout man Jaime H - have a more permanent farewell this November – again, enabled by volunteered to sit on judicial- term to a number of fine

2 In Brief Editorial In Brief From the Editor Needs You Has your Chambers featured in the Legal 500?

Do you have something to share with other Prudence Beaumont, members of the Circuit? Have you taken part in a Deans Court Chambers specialist Bar event? Have you participated in an interesting or unusual case?

Do you have a new I confess. We started eating Sutton (Circuit Junior) [p.6]. for services to diversity in the Tenant? mince pies in October in our There is still time to sign up workplace, social mobility household, on the shaky for Christmas Mess on 10th and law [p. 8]. Have you raised funds for grounds that we need to December, a welcome a local charity? identify the ‘best mince pies’ opportunity to bring Circuit The Circuit continues its work before Christmas. Let’s be together. All the more in relation to equality and Share your news with honest, is a slippery slope. valuable at a time when many diversity under the leadership other members of the I’ve been debating whether of us are missing the of Lena Amartey, Equality, Northern Circuit. it’s acceptable to put up the company of others. Diversity and Social Mobility Christmas tree since mid- Officer [details at p.9]. If you All members’ September. All restraint in Sadly, there have been a have not yet completed the contributions to In Brief terms of Christmas has well number of losses which saw a survey circulated by the warmly welcomed. and truly gone out the great outpouring from Circuit Race Working Group, window. As the nights draw Circuiteers, reminding us of then I urge you to do so. It is Please send your article in, it’s about taking comfort in the true power of friendships for all members of Circuit. (and photos with the little things whilst the made on Circuit. Each of captions where chaos rages on. those individuals are sorely I appreciate that there will be appropriate) to the new missed. This edition mixed feelings for many as we Editor, If you’re embracing the commemorates Bob Golinski approach the festive period. I Prudence Beaumont Christmas spirit, then please [p.10], John Broadley [p.11] wish you all the very best [email protected] enter HHJ Medland QC’s and HHJ John Morgan [p.6]. during these trying times. I Charity Quiz [p.15] for the hope that you are able to Photographs should be chance to win a bottle of There are a number of make the best of the provided in the highest champagne! All proceeds go celebrations too. Recent uncertainty. I look forward to resolution possible to to the Northern Circuit months have seen great reporting back on the results ensure good Hardship Fund. number of appointments to of the mince pie contest and reproduction which we extend our a more positive 2021 for us The restrictions on social congratulations. In this all. Deadlines for 2021 gatherings has resulted in the edition we welcome HHJ 15th March for April adoption of virtual messes Nicholas Dean QC to Circuit Prudence Beaumont which have been a great [interview at p.7] and Editor success as detailed by Alex recognise Sally Penni’s MBE

In Brief is published in April, August & December

Editor Leader of the Circuit Adminstrator Published on behalf of the Northern Circuit by Prudence Beaumont Lisa Roberts QC Susan Chisholme Deans Court Chambers Lincoln House Chambers Deans Court Chambers Baskerville Publications 24 St John Street Tower 12, 101 Walker Street, Apartment 327 Manchester The Avenue North, Preston PR1 2RR Holden Mill Tel: 0161 214 6000 Spinningfields, DX: 710057 PRESTON 10 Blackburn Road [email protected] 18-22 Bridge Street, Telephone: 0161 660 3848 Bolton BL1 7PN Manchester, [email protected] Advertising Enquiries M3 3BZ 01204 303323 Tel 0161 832 5701 [email protected] Circuit News

Head of Kings Chambers Deans Court Chambers strengthen appointed Justice of the High their Regulatory & Professional Court Discipline Teams Deans Court Chambers are Leading barristers’ set Kings Chambers has announced that the Queen delighted to announce the arrival has approved the appointment of Nigel Poole QC as a Justice of the of two new door tenants; Fiona High Court (Family Division). Horlick QC and Paul Ozin QC. They are both highly renowned Nigel Poole QC has been Head of Chambers since March 2017 at the in their fields and consistently set which operates out of chambers in Manchester, Leeds and ranked in the leading directories. Birmingham. His appointment will commence on 1st October 2020. Fiona’s practice encompasses The news means Nigel Poole will now be known as The Honourable Health and Safety, a wide variety Mr Justice Poole. of Regulatory work, Disciplinary proceedings and Specialist Crime Deputy Head of Chambers, Paul Tucker QC said: “Nigel has had a very – particularly business crime, distinguished career at the bar spanning some 30 years. He joined medical crime, and Health and Fiona Horlick QC Kings Chambers in 2004 and has been a highly respected and popular Safety Criminal Proceedings. colleague. We are all immensely grateful for his tireless work as our Head of Chambers which he carried out with his usual Paul specialises principally in the professionalism, integrity and courtesy. All members and staff warmly fields of Financial and Business congratulate him on his deserved appointment and wish him well in Crime, Regulatory and his new role.” Disciplinary Proceedings and related Public Law, Civil Actions Nigel Poole QC was called to the Bar in 1989 and took Silk in 2012. He and International Work. was appointed as a Recorder in 2009 and as a Deputy High Court Judge in 2017. He was a Chair of the Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Deans Court are the only Service from 2013 – 2020. Regional Band 1 set for Professional Discipline and Health & Safety in the Chambers and Partners 2021 directory. The team is described as “a very strong set at the top of its game” Paul Ozin QC and “a heavyweight set in terms of healthcare regulation and great testament to the inquests.” reputation of Chambers and also the Northern Circuit for the Senior Regulatory Clerk, Peter outstanding specialist services Kelly said of the new additions this region provides. We highly “We are delighted these value our Solicitor Clients and outstanding individuals have want to ensure we provide chosen to join Chambers to ongoing added value for mutual complement our teams. This is a benefit at all levels”. Northern Circuit Christmas Mess Thursday 10th December 2020

Mess will be held at your own home at 7.00pm, and families are more than welcome.

Please wear whatever is comfortable (though festive attire is heartily encouraged), and feel free to have food and drink as we bring Circuit together ahead of the Christmas break.

To sign up, simply send an email to Susan Chisholme ([email protected]) registering your interest.

Break out rooms will be broadly organised according to Chambers, but if you have any “seating” requests please feel free to put them in your email to Susan and we will try to accommodate.

Nigel Poole QC

4 In Brief Circuit News St John’s Buildings adds police officer turned barrister to its criminal law team

St John’s Buildings has welcomed criminal serious and complex cases on behalf of barrister Suzanne Payne to its Liverpool various prosecuting authorities, as well as Chambers, adding further expertise to its undertaking high-profile and complex established criminal law team. defence work. She will join more than 100 junior counsel and three Queens Counsel, Previously a member of a Cardiff chambers, operating nationally out of Liverpool, Suzanne regularly appears for the Manchester, Sheffield and Chester. prosecution and defence in the Magistrates’ and Crown Courts in various Chris Ronan, Chief Executive at St John’s criminal matters including domestic Buildings, said: “With close to 30 years’ violence, sexual offences, possession with experience in police forces across the UK, intent to supply and hearings under the Suzanne will add further expertise to our Proceeds of Crime Act. criminal team. Her passion for the law is exemplified by her extensive career in the Called to the Bar in 2014, following 28 years police, and her move to the Bar. We look with the police in Merseyside and South forward to welcoming her to chambers Wales, she brings with her an in-depth where she will strength our already knowledge of police investigations and reputable criminal law team.” procedures following her various roles in uniform, CID, crime management and Suzanne Payne said: “St John’s Buildings covert policing. Suzanne also has previous has an established reputation as a leading experience in the National Crime Squad, chambers, with its criminal team widely now National Crime Agency, instructing in recognised as one of the best. I’m very surveillance techniques, disclosure and proud to be joining SJB and in particular to other covert policing tactics. be able to work alongside such an accomplished team.” Suzanne will be a part of St John’s Buildings’ criminal law team which Suzanne Payne regularly appears in some of the most

In Brief 5 Interview Interview with Sir Richard Henriques

Landmark cases punctuate our lives and our communities. Often concludes with 10 recommendations. They are well reasoned and capturing the hearts of the nation. Sir Richard Henriques’ From Crime considered. Some are obvious, to all of us that work within the system to Crime charts a great number of those cases with clinical precision. – increased funding of the criminal justice system is essential. Others are more controversial such as a review of the Judicial Appointments Opening the contents page and noting the seventeen cases detailed Committee and the option for Defendants to elect for trial by judge in the book, it is immediately clear that this is an extraordinary career. alone. All are worthy of further thought and debate demonstrating He had been described to me as a ‘giant’ of the Criminal Bar. An his continued interest in bettering the system. accolade laden with respectful adoration. The proportions of which I was vaguely familiar given that Sir Richard is a former member of my In discussing the cases, Sir Richard was reflective. He did not suggest Chambers, but with which I had not really grappled until I read From that he had lived through the glory days but drew clear comparisons Crime to Crime. between the then and now. He noted that he had ‘learned a great deal’ from the James Bulger case in terms of the procedure relating to Each of the cases are examined with objectivity and there is little of child defendants. We discussed at some length the impact of seismic the man behind the career. There is a power in this simplicity in that cases like Bulger on their communities. Sir Richard observing that the cases speak for themselves. Interestingly, the book was initially there is a particular ‘power to the community of Liverpool who are written as a memoir, but it was felt to be more applicable to a wider joined not only in their highly recognisable accent but also in their audience if its focus was the cases and so proceeded on that basis. I spirit’. A spirit that he found to be particularly supportive when at the remained as intrigued by the person behind the events as the events Bench. He was keen to reassure me that life as a High Court Judge themselves, so I was particularly grateful when Sir Richard agreed to had been far from lonely. He had enjoyed the companionship of his be interviewed for In Brief magazine. fellow judges and I was quite taken with his tales of dining in lodgings. The very tenor of the book was reflected in our conversation in that he appeared to be conscious of the harmful impact of egotism. There At a time when ‘cancel culture’ is rife, our conversation served as a was no suggestion that this was an easy stance, but rather one helpful reminder of the value in listening to differing voices, angles adopted quite deliberately. Sir Richard remarking that “there is no and perspectives. It is perhaps too easy to fall foul of the Oscar Wilde: value in entering the robing room and eyeing up others, questioning ‘I am not young enough to know everything’ trope and forget that the why he is now instructed by some solicitor that used to instruct you. human experience is in many regards, universal. Your friends are also your competitors and it something you have to learn to live with otherwise it will cause you untold difficulties.” It was Perhaps his sagest piece of advice was unsurprisingly related to abundantly clear that Sir Richard immensely enjoyed his career both people rather than case law: - ‘Lady Hale had it quite right, “you must at the Bar and Bench and that enjoyment was principally derived from choose your partner at the Bar with the greatest care.” My enduring his friendships rather than his professional success. experience was that those with happy home lives who enjoyed time with their loved ones went on to have the most successful careers. He is a proper Circuiteer. It seems that the role of Leader of the Circuit The two are most definitely connected.’ I think we might call that well- never quite leaves you. He showed great compassion for the being now, but the principle is an enduring one. profession, keen to extend his sympathies to the ravaging impact of Covid-19 on the Bar, to celebrate the sterling work of Lisa Roberts QC, Prudence Beaumont and to bemoan the state of the justice system. From Crime to Crime Editor Virtual Mess

My time as Junior began on a sunny summer’s evening, as I was and being cheered along in the process – the ‘unmute all’ sworn in from the comfort of my own home: a non-traditional function utilised; clapping very much encouraged. We hope to start to a rather traditional role. What a novelty it was to have host another such event for established practitioners in the hundreds of Circuiteers, family and friends gathered for the first coming months – those who would like to be elected in this way ever virtual Mess – waving, chattering, and, naturally, peeking into should please contact the Circuit Office. Pupils and new one another’s sitting rooms. It was a special event, but I had practitioners: you have not been forgotten, we have plans to confidence that by the autumn we would be back to ‘in person’ organise a Grand Court for you as soon as we are able. Mess, even if on a more intimate scale. My prophetic skills evidently leave much to be desired. Our next virtual Mess is to take place on 10th December, and will have an altogether Christmassy feel to it. It will be a welcome Fortunately, the restrictions on social gatherings have not opportunity to bring Circuit together as a whole for the first time prevented us from hosting Mess. In fact, we have found that since the summer: all are invited and festive attire is heartily virtual Messes have their own, well, virtues. In October, LRQC and I encouraged. had the pleasure of hosting 23 of our new pupils and their supervisors for a special welcome Mess. It was an absolute treat to Whilst it would have been lovely to host some in-person Messes, meet these prospective members of Circuit in this way; hosting and whilst there are of course drawbacks to virtual gatherings, the event on Zoom with small breakout rooms meant we were the events so far have been very positive. For those who may not able to chat with each guest individually, and that we could have ordinarily attended Mess, or those who for various reasons answer all sorts of questions about Circuit life. It was how Mess may not have been able to so do, I hope that our virtual events should be – sociable, fun, and a chance to see old friends and new. have hit the spot. It will be great when we can come together again , but until then, I look forward to seeing you on my screen! In early November, we hosted the first ever virtual Grand Court, at which 25 established practitioners were elected. They are now all Alex Sutton very welcome members of Circuit after stating their pretentions Junior

6 In Brief Interview

Interview with HHJ Nicholas Dean QC, the new Resident Judge at Manchester Crown Court and the Recorder of Manchester HHJ Nicholas Dean QC was appointed as the Resident Judge at Manchester Crown Court on 6th July. He moved from Leicester Crown Court, where he had been the Resident Judge since 2014. However HHJ Dean QC grew up in the North West, living in Egerton, just outside Bolton and then in Farndon, Cheshire.

The family moved to Leicester when HHJ Dean QC was 12 and where he attended Wyggeston Grammar for boys. HHJ Dean QC says, “At school, students tended to opt for either medicine or the law. I had no family connections in the law, but my father had a friend who was a barrister and I thought, at the time, that he had rather a glamorous lifestyle and so I opted to study law at Leeds University.” In retrospect, HHJ Dean QC says he wishes he had chosen a different discipline as he found the law not to be very challenging as an academic subject. But he adds, “I knew that I wanted to work with people and the law offered that opportunity and so I applied to The College of Law to become a solicitor, but the course was full and instead decided to become a barrister, and was accepted into the Inns of Court Law School”.

HHJ Dean QC found a pupillage at a Chambers in Leicester, but was not taken on as a Tenant once he had completed his training. He joined the Lord Chancellor’s Department and then the Crown Prosecution Service when it was formed in 1986. HHJ Nicholas Dean QC He then returned to Chambers in Leicester,later joining 7 Bedford Row Resident Judge at Manchester Crown Court and a London set (then 2 Crown Office Row) on the Midland Circuit where Recorder of Manchester he specialised in crime and did some civil work.

HHJ Dean QC took Silk in 2003, a role which took him all over the deal with the cases waiting to be heard.” He adds. “Courts in general country. His practice was predominantly heavyweight prosecutions are not designed to cope with social distancing, neither are they large on behalf of the SFO and FCA. enough easily to accommodate the people needed to hear a case whilst maintaining social distancing. Most cases are now utilising two He was appointed a Circuit Judge in 2013 and returned to the North or even three courtrooms and we are staggering the start times of West, sitting in Chester before returning to Leicester as the Resident trials and the courtrooms are cleaned at regular intervals, but this is Judge in June 2014. both a time consuming and labour intensive process. The re-opening of the Court has been a steep learning curve for the Judges, the court Looking back at his career, HHJ Dean QC says that he never became staff and its users.” emotionally engaged in individual cases. He adds, “There are very few evil people. Most crimes are committed out of stupidity or greed and HHJ Dean QC is a keen cyclist and keep fit enthusiast, but lockdown very often drink and/or drugs play a part in the actions of these has seen him static cycling and using an app which takes him on individuals. As a Judge we often see the worst side of humanity, but virtual rides through some of the best cycling routes in the world. we have to learn not to allow emotions to take over.” HHJ Dean QC is currently living in an apartment in Manchester during As a barrister most of HHJ Dean QC’s cases focused insider dealing the week and returning home to Leicestershire at the weekends, but and serious fraud and one case in particular stands out. The case, the family will be re-locating to Manchester in the near future. He has which was heard in Jersey involved investigations into financial two adult children, his daughter lives in London and works for a irregularities in the defence industry, which involved the bribery of women’s clothing designer and his son is a singer/songwriter who foreign governments. HHJ Dean QC adds, “The details of the case lives in Madrid and was recently featured on Spanish national radio as remain highly confidential to this day, but it was a real eye-opener on he performed for his neighbours from his appartment’s balcony. the way in which the defence industry operates.” Concluding HHJ Dean QC says, “Despite these being very difficult HHJ Dean QC became Resident Judge at Manchester Crown Square in times, I have found there is a great deal of satisfaction to be gained July as the Court started to re-open after lockdown. He says “The last from public service and I am looking forward to serving the people of five or six months have been very difficult. A large number of cases Manchester.” have been heard via CVP, but I feel this takes away the human element of court proceedings and I do miss interaction with people. Once you are deprived of this contact you start to realise how important it is. “

Cases are now being heard at Manchester Crown Square, but not at full capacity. Clearly there is a large backlog of cases and HHJ Dean QC says “In normal times there was a backlog and this has increased during lockdown, so now it is important to increase the capacity to

In Brief 7 Circuit News Work Allocation Equality Monitoring

The Bar Council’s Income at the Bar – By Gender and Ethnicity report published this month makes for depressing reading. Women consistently earn less than their male counterparts in every practice area, even when seniority is taken into account. The report highlights that the income differences are particularly stark when you look at gender and ethnicity together, with black female barristers being the lowest earning group. To make matters worse black barristers working outside London have the lowest medium income.

Such findings oblige us all to take stock and question what we can do to bring about real and lasting change. The basics are always a good place to start. Does your Chambers have a E&D Officer? Have you seen the E&D plan of action? What steps does it include to the tackle the disadvantages suffered by ethnic minority barristers? Are your clerks trained on equality and diversity? Is your clerks room diverse? Is there transparency regarding fees in your Chambers? of each barrister every month which is viewable to all. Whilst this The Bar Council Handbook Equality Rules set out the minimum will not work for every set, there are many ways to analyse standard and compliance is essential to ensure we can build upon receipts anonymously to ensure there is no unexplained disparity and improve the current disparity of income at the Bar. in earnings. Work allocation equality monitoring could be a powerful tool to combat the disparity in earnings between white males and For instance, publication of average receipts by year of call for everyone else. The Equality Rules 1 require that Chambers monitor each practice group enables Chambers and individual barristers to the allocation of unassigned work. The Rules 2 also place an identify low receipts and provide additional support. It can be obligation on Chambers to take reasonable steps to ensure that used to undertake planned and targeting marketing. It could also work opportunities are shared fairly among its workforce which be used to trigger practice management meetings and clerking includes work not allocated by the solicitor to the named barrister. targets. Gathering the information provides possibilities for So, if your Chambers is not already monitoring unallocated work it innovation and improvement. should be. It should be on the Equality and Diversity Action Plan and a task force should be established to put it into action. Identifying and rectifying potential issues with work distribution and fees is not only in the interests of those individual barristers Both Meridian and Lex have built in functionality to easily monitor effected, but to Chambers as a whole. Chambers thrives when all the allocation of unassigned work. Getting the clerks to collect the members are reaching their full earning potential. data is easy, how you analyse and make sense of the data is not. It takes time and thought. It necessitates the navigation of difficult Lena Amartey questions posed by different working patterns, client preferences 9SJS and clerking decisions. Nonetheless, there is no doubt it can make Equality, Diversity and Social Mobility Officer a significant difference to the careers of many if done correctly. C110(3)(f)(iii). Transparency on income at the Bar is also an important point to C110.3(f)(iii). consider. There are Chambers out there that publish the earnings Volunteers needed for research project on the Language of DIY Justice

Birmingham Law School and BCU School of English are conducting challenges that arise during legal-lay interactions; (4) a research project on Language of DIY Justice, focusing on communication and elicitation processes inherent in court communication challenges experienced by Litigants in Person in administrative procedures; (5) communication and elicitation civil proceedings. processes embedded in civil procedure rules. We would also be interested in your reflections on recent remote hearings if you have The project investigates the following aspects: language used to any experience with LIPs in these settings. construct perceptions around DIY Justice; legal-lay communication; and communication and elicitation processes embedded in court As part of the project, the Principal Investigator Dr Tatiana administration and procedures (e.g. how information and evidence Tkacukova is interested in conducting interviews with solicitors and is elicited through administrative steps and procedural rules). barristers who have experience dealing with LIPs. If you would like to share your experience and views, please get in touch with Tatiana The focus on language and communication allows the project to at [email protected]. explore key players and factors that shape DIY Justice: (1) LIPs and their perceptions of their experiences and roles within legal The interview will last for approximately 15 mins and can be done proceedings; (2) judges and lawyers and their perceptions of LIPs’ over the phone or via Zoom/MS Teams/Skype or another online capabilities and roles within legal proceedings; (3) communication platform. 8 In Brief Obituary Obituary - HH John Morgan

His Honour Judge John Morgan (1934-2020) John’s speciality was the civil jury where his expertise, patience and common sense were put to best use. He was a great favourite of the John Ambrose Morgan was born in September 1934 which, as from Bar and his brethren in the QEII, borne out by the fact that Court 4:1 time to time he reminded us, was the month and year he shared with was filled to capacity when tributes were led by HHJ David Clarke QC Sophia Loren and Brigitte Bardot. He was also proud to bear the name and David Steer QC on the morning of John’s retirement. John was in of the renowned British bandleader of the time. such demand for civil jury trials that he was often called upon to sit as a Deputy until he finally called it a day in 2009. St Edward’s College in Liverpool led to a law degree from Liverpool University, articles with the Town Clerk of Bootle, and admission to A keen sportsman, John joined Liverpool Rugby Club in the 50s and the Roll of Solicitors in 1958, having first achieved the Law Society’s played eleven games for the first team as scrum half, later to turn to Local Government Prize in his final examinations. refereeing with the Liverpool Society and was placed on the First- Class Panel. He became President of Liverpool Rugby Union Football John’s legal career was placed on hold for two years whilst he Club in 1982 and later broadcast on local games for Radio Merseyside. undertook National Service in the Royal Air Force. After a six-month John kept wicket for Sefton Cricket Club’s second team and later course in Mandarin Chinese he was posted to Hong Kong where he became President of the club establishing an annual golf tournament spent his time eavesdropping on Chinese MIG pilot communications. known as ‘The John Morgan Classic.’ Ian Harris recalls John’s wicket- When he later learned that at the same time a young David Lynch was keeping at Sefton as ‘talented both in glovework and witty banter’ in the same branch of the services performing a similar task in and describes him in later years when he was umpiring for the local Germany listening in to the Communist Bloc, he observed that the Bar team as ‘ hugely popular with all the players and always lovely safety of the free world, for fortunately a brief period, rested on the company.’ John was also a stalwart of Woolton Golf Club. shoulders of two unpromising protectors. Having completed his tour of duty, John took up a position as an Aside from the law and sport John had a great love of music and Assistant Solicitor with the then Liverpool Corporation, achieving literature. Having joined the chorus of the Bentley Operatic Society, recognition during the 1963 freeze-up, when all football was he graduated to principal roles, most notably as the judge in Trial by cancelled. The football pools companies wished to establish the Pools Jury when he was simply playing himself! He served for many years as Panel whose members would decide, each Saturday, the result of all the Society’s President. John was also heavily involved with the choir League matches. John ensured that the scheme was set up in such a at the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. manner as not to contravene gaming legislation. He delighted in telling the story of a club which, according to the Panel, lost so many Following the closure of the Lyceum Club, John joined the times over several months that its chairman was thinking of sacking Athenaeum, becoming its President in 2009. His year in office was the manager. notable for the number of excellent functions he arranged. One included a comedy sketch performance in which John, with two other John later moved to private practice as a partner in J Frodsham & former judges, Elizabeth Christie and Richard McCullagh, lampooned Sons in Prescot but a desire for full-time advocacy led him to go to the Institution’s stultifying dress code which led directly to its early the Bar and join 14 Cook Street, Liverpool as pupil to his good friend and welcome relaxation. More recently John was Chairman of the Bert Andrew. His years as a solicitor stood him in good stead and he Literature Group giving occasional talks on his great love of ‘Scandi- rapidly built up a large practice. If any Merseyside local authority crime’ novels. He was an accomplished after-dinner speaker and much required representation in any difficult long running investigation, in demand. His style was light, amusing and greatly enjoyed by John was their first-choice counsel. One such Inquiry into the death of audiences of all types who would have been unaware that the a child took place in Bebington over 50 days in 1980 chaired by smooth relaxed delivery and choice of content came from meticulous Michael Morland QC when the actions of Wirral Borough Council, its preparation. Social Services Department, the Health and Police Authorities and several GPs were closely examined. John had no easy task as all John was a Governor of his old school, St Edward’s College and served interested parties were represented by experienced advocates eager for many years as Chairman of the Governing Body. to avoid criticism of their clients. Aside from Counsel to the Inquiry, Many colleagues have sent in tributes with a common theme. ‘He was John bore the main burden and came through with flying colours. Of a kind good man and a friend to us all.’ He was a wonderful human the eleven advocates in the case, two were later promoted from the being and utterly delightful company.’ ‘What a lovely and talented Circuit Bench to join the Chairman on the High Court and eight were man he was.’ appointed to the Circuit Bench, three of whom had first taken silk. His was a long life usefully spent in the service of others. It is perhaps His outstanding performance during that Inquiry made it plain for all appropriate to recall here the words often used by a former Recorder to see that John had the ability and temperament for judicial office of Liverpool, HHJ Sir Sanderson Temple MBE., QC on a sad occasion and preferment soon followed. He was invited to sit as a Deputy such as this: Stipendiary Magistrate in 1982 and dealt with many challenging cases during the Miners’ Strike of 1984. His appointment an Assistant ‘We do not forget, and he never forgot, that he was a member of the Recorder in 1983 and as a Recorder in 1988 preceded his swearing in Northern Circuit, thus he was one of us and we have lost one of ours.’ as a Circuit Judge in 1990, sitting in Liverpool until his retirement in Fifty years ago John married Rosalie and they have two sons, Matthew 2003. John liked to tell the story which occurred soon after his and Benedict. We offer to the family our deepest sympathies. appointment. He received an injury whilst officiating at some sporting event. Although the injury was minor it required a visit to hospital Richard McCullagh where the following exchange took place. David Lynch Triage Nurse: Name please? John: John Morgan Nurse: Occupation? John (proudly): Circuit Judge Nurse: A what? John: Circuit Judge Nurse: I’ll put down electrician. In Brief 9 Obituary Obituary - Bob Golinski Our friend and colleague Bob sadly passed away in August. He was many things. Family man, rockstar, model, international spy and a proud criminal barrister on the Northern Circuit. We will all remember him though as a talented, gentle and wonderful human being.

He was modest but in truth he had a lot to brag about. Lead guitarist, songwriter and co-creator of the Brighton post-punk band the Golinski Brothers, signed to Badge Records. Of the 1980 single, Bloody and its opening lines, “I wanna go where they’ve never seen snow / Send my giro to Cairo”, Legend BBC DJ John Peel declared: “This is the best song in the world for this week … and people have had the OBE for less, a lot less, than that.” Two copies of the single were among the 142 kept by Peel in a special record box at his home, and Bloody is still played from time to time by Peel’s son, Tom Ravenscroft, on his BBC 6 Music radio show. Tom, when he heard of Bob’s ill health, sent a message confirming that Bloody was a favourite of his as a child as it was opportunity for him to swear when it blasted out in his dad’s car.

The band supported the Clash on their 1980 tour in Brighton. The band also ran ‘Cabaret Golinski’ nights, where a favourite turn was Bob standing on a paving slab which was laid across the torso of escapologist Captain JJ Waller who was at the same time lying on a bed of nails. Bob stood there playing the Sabre Dance on his beloved Fender guitar, stepped off and a member of the audience would smash the paving slab with a sledge hammer. They don’t do gigs like that anymore.

After a spell as a model for Brutus, Bob became a one-time secret agent, recruited by the exiled Czech Prague Spring veteran Jan Kavan, smuggling “samizdat” literature into Czechoslovakia in support of the human rights movement Charter 77. He drove a Ford estate into the country with documents, books, cash, music cassettes and Beatles memorabilia in a false gas tank. Armed Corner, a regular act at many Kendal Calling festivals, raising border guard stopped him and tapped a coin along the gas tank money for cancer charities between 2010 and 2020. The Golinski but they accidentally let him through. Later on Charles Bridge a Brothers reunited for regular gigs from 2009 onwards. relieved Bob waited, studying an unfolded map. A stranger Bob has been many things therefore but Bob was first and approached him and delivered the coded message “the last train foremost a proud and loving husband to Jane and a fantastic has left’. Obviously, there was a password to get in the safe house father to Ellie and Fran. Importantly he died at home surrounded if the mission got derailed: “My name is Johnny Cash.” by the love of his family. The Northern Circuit has lost a talented barrister and a great friend. Many kind tributes for Bob have been Bob later worked for Camden Council and was seconded to its left on his Tribute Page (https://bobgolinski.muchloved.com). Nalgo branch, representing members in pay claims and Please visit it and leave a thought; Bob will always be in ours. disciplinary cases. This gave him a taste for advocacy. In 1986 he went to North London Polytechnic (now London Metropolitan Richard Littler QC University), where in 1989 he graduated in Modern Studies and Exchange Chambers Law. He then sat the bar finals.

As a criminal barrister, Bob became pupil to John Benson at Bridge Street Chambers (now Atlantic Street Chambers) and later became a member of Exchange Chambers in Manchester. He found satisfaction in securing justice and closure for victims when prosecuting, and protecting the civil liberties of others when defending.

Bob was once being introduced to a colleague at his chambers and the colleague enthusiastically enquired 'were you in Golinski Brothers?' Bob modestly said yes and the new colleague volunteered 'I got divorced recently - it was all very civilized until we got down to trying to decide who would have our only copy of the Golinski Brothers' single 'Bloody'.

His joy in music never went away. He helped create and played lead guitar in the Exchange Chambers’ punk rock charity band Red

10 In Brief Obituary Obituary - John Broadley

Unlike one of John’s legendary stories which could usually be described as “inspired by true events” what follows is the unvarnished truth.

John Broadley was born in Oldham on 23rd June 1951. He was brought up in Moss Side and educated at St Ambrose College in Hale Barns. He entered Holy Orders with a view to joining the priesthood, but finding that it did not agree with him, he took an LLB at Bristol University before being called to the bar in 1973.

He started his career at what was then 67 Princess Street Chambers as pupil to Barry, later His Honour Judge, Woodward. 67 Princess Street grew and developed, moving to become firstly Hollins Chambers and later Cobden House Chambers. John was head of chambers for a number of years, was a cornerstone of it throughout his career and, as befitted his character, remained fiercely proud of and loyal to his Chambers to the end. John also established flourishing annexes at Café Istanbul, Mulligans, San Giorgio’s (and its early incarnation as the Fifth Inn) and El Rincon.

John was in his element in convivial company. In such setting, he attracted people like moths to light. Put simply, he was the consummate communicator, a raconteur nonpariel. Time in John's company was never misspent. His often improbable, always captivating, stories were never cruel and invariably reflected some greater truth about the human condition. Although, over the years, some became as familiar as old friends, John's tales never ceased to be a pleasure to hear, each re-crafted and refreshed on every telling by some new twist or added insight. Few, if any, came away from approach and present a case. For many he was the first point of John's company without feeling better about themselves and better contact when a tricky case needed to be discussed and always gave about life in general. unfailingly of his time. Inevitably he would be able to show the best way forward. Despite being “Mr Manchester” to most who knew him (which seemed like most of the City), to suggest that he was anything other Since his death many people, not by any means confined to members than a Sligo man himself was to risk his ire. Intensely proud of his of the Circuit or even the wider legal profession, have told of some Irish/Scottish heritage, he considered himself a Sligo man through small act of kindness, some private handwritten note of and through, just not born and bred. This he ascribed to a mere encouragement from John which touched their lives. accident of birth, one subject at least upon which John was ad idem with the Duke of Wellington. His final case was, perhaps, a fitting tribute to him. As ever he was asked to represent the underdog, in this case the ultimate underdog; He inherited his legendary sporting prowess from his father, a fine the homeless “hero” of the appalling bombing at the Manchester footballer who represented the League of Ireland at international Arena who was later revealed to have stolen from the dead and dying. level. On several occasions John’s footballing talents were pressed It was a mark of John’s consummate professionalism, skill and into action for the Northern Circuit in the annual rugby fixture against humanity that he was able to separate the man from the deed and, in the Irish bar, although it is right to observe that touchline critics have the best traditions of the bar and Northern Circuit, provide him with suggested that a natural reticence for engaging in the rough stuff skilled and effective representation. may have blunted his impact on a rugby pitch. His zest for life and his enthusiasm for the bar remained undimmed He was in fact part of the inaugural Anglo Irish rugby fixture and should be a reminder and an inspiration to us all. The organised, remarkably, at the height of the Troubles in 1974. He priesthood’s narrow escape was our immeasurable gain. remained an integral part of that cultural exchange and was always an invaluable companion for the away trips thanks to his encyclopaedic John was one of four siblings; brother to Paul, Helen and Tony and knowledge of most of the highspots and all of the lowspots of Dublin father to 5 children; twins John and Clare who were deceased after nightlife. His outstanding contribution to the fixture was recognised only a few days and to his beloved boys Anthony, Jonathan and in 2015 when he was awarded the highly coveted Sir David Poole Alistair. trophy. The trophy has not been seen since. John was cruelly struck down and then taken too young. He is badly In many ways the passing of John Broadley marks something of an missed. end of an era of the Northern Circuit. He belonged to a golden age of Circuit advocacy and, as those who were fortunate enough to see him Ian Metcalfe. perform will attest, was never outshone by those who went on to Robin Kitching. reach for higher honours.

The reaction to John’s passing has been universal. Anyone who was lucky enough to be touched by John’s kindness and humanity (pretty much everyone he met) has spoken of his warmth, mischievous sense of humour and generosity of spirit. He had all of those qualities beyond measure, but he was also a superb jury advocate and a truly formidable lawyer who had a rare and natural grasp of how to best In Brief 11 Ramblings The Collected Ramblings of a Disaffected Northern Circuiteer

Part 18: Annus Horrendus. Reflections on a truly awful year ______

The not so serious column

In a move which probably set the R Number on a new trajectory and reflected Northern Quarter Chambers’ pre-eminence as the stupidest set on the Northern Circuit, we decided to hold an in-person Extraordinary General Meeting recently. It was like an in-person court hearing. Risky, but justifiable because as key workers we are immune to the virus. I am not aware that any other Chambers have done this yet, so we are ahead of the game. It was Miranda’s idea. Miranda Molyneux QC is still our Head of Chambers. She is a family lawyer. They think differently to other lawyers. In truth, it’s times like this that In case you were wondering, no, I don’t have a dog. you need to do things differently. She thought it would be a good idea for us all to get together to share our recent experiences and The slightly more serious column start to plan ahead for a time when work is in abundance and we can afford to pay Chambers expenses. This is family-lawyer speak for ‘crisis The Bar Council’s website still proclaims that “The Bar makes a vital meeting’. We turned up looking like a right ragbag of misfits with too contribution to the efficient and effective operation of criminal and much time at home having done few of us any favours. We were civil courts”. In the present circumstances, this may be a little joined by Danny Davis Jnr, our out of work Chief Clerk who looked like optimistic. he had been auditioning for the Jimi Hendrix Experience. When I started at the Bar, life was simple. You read a book by Richard The meeting kicked off pretty much like a school reunion, with us Du Cann called ‘The Art of the Advocate’ and you were ready to take reacquainting ourselves with all the characteristics and foibles in each your place in the pantheon of all-time greats. Advocacy is the DNA other that we used to hate but were now prepared to overlook. We that runs through us, and the cut and thrust of the courtroom is what had tea and buns and chatted enthusiastically until it came round to brings that DNA to life. Even Norman Birkett managed to lose the the crisis part of the meeting. We talked about selling the Chambers Green Bicycles Case against Edward Marshall Hall with such aplomb premises and becoming virtual recluses, but a bright spark in the that he was still offered a place in Marshall Hall’s Chambers. It is said Business & Property Department said we needed a buyer for that, and that in his first year in silk Birkett earned the princely sum of £8,600. I no-one was buying at the moment, so that was that. Then we talked expect that may have been a lot in 1924, but in 2020 it’s working out about sub-letting but we couldn’t think who might want to occupy about average. Times have changed, and with it, invariably, our barristers chambers apart from barristers, so that was also that. Finally, perception of what the Bar is all about. We haven’t seen the likes of we talked about merger. Historically, talk of merger is seen as the Birkett and Marshall Hall for some time, and I fear it may be some time panacea for all Chambers’ ills and is usually the last spin of the dice for before we see their likes again, but what I sincerely hope we see in an outgoing Head of Chambers. It sparked a few silly suggestions but the great advocates of the future is a golden thread of empathy. This, I the reality is that the Norther Quarter Supertanker is so far out to sea sense, has been missing for some time. Lawyers have become that we can’t see a merger target never mind dock safely. So, we stressed. Judges have become cross. Our laws have become remain adrift. Drinking tea and eating buns. It’s all terribly British. burdensome. But in the present climate, empathy is the glue that holds us together. Bar and Bench. ***** ***** My relationship with the Bar Standards Board moved into Tier 3 In 1992, Sir Edward Ford, a former Royal courtier, wrote to the Queen’s recently, which means very, very bad. They sent me an email which private secretary to extend his sympathies for a series of unfortunate read like a pre-action protocol letter of claim referring to “the events which had beset the Royal Household that year, using the problems we have had with you in the past”, which I thought was a bit Latin phrase ‘Annus Horribilis’, an expression which the Queen edgy, and telling me to lodge my CPD record with them by the end of famously borrowed in a speech at the Guildhall to mark the 40th the year “if I was to avoid sanctions this time”. On the off chance that anniversary of her accession. Ford was Called to the Bar of Middle this had been circulated to every member of the Bar, I hit ‘reply all’ Temple in 1937, and evidently had an eye for disaster, later reflecting and typed in bold capitals “YOU’RE F……G KIDDING. HAVEN’T YOU that the phrase he should have used was ‘Annus Horrendus’. Ford HEARD THERE’S A VIRUS ON?” Then I had an involuntary spasm of passed away in 2006. Had he been around this year I doubt he would common sense and reflected on the wisdom of doing a Trump and have made the same mistake. It has, indeed, been a truly awful year, saying something which I might regret. So instead, I filled in my CPD with most of us at the Bar being taken on a journey we would rather record and sent it to them: not have embarked upon. But it is a journey, and it will have an end and maybe one year we will rejoice in an Annus Mirabilis. For now, I • Wellbeing at the Bar: Dog-walking (1hr per day). Resting pause from my ramblings, which have been considerably more between dog-walks (10hrs per day). Feeding the dog (15 difficult to write this time, to wish you all a Happy Christmas and a mins per day). safe and composed New Year. As Lord Justice Schwarzenegger once • Practice management: Checking emails for signs of work: (2 said in a case I can’t remember, I’ll be back. And so will you. mins per day). Time for reflection: 10 hrs per day (while resting between dog-walks, see above). ______• What relevant objectives are outstanding: Work (but dog happy). John Knott is a Member of Northern Quarter Chambers. He’s had time • CPD Provider: Me + dog on his hands to reflect and has concluded that a dog will be a good idea. 12 In Brief LawCare Women in the Law UK founder recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours list

The founder and chair of Women in the Law UK has been made an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, announced on 11 October. Sally Penni has received the honour in recognition of her services to diversity in the workplace, social mobility and law.

Miss Penni is the founder and chair of Women in the Law UK, the professional development organisation that promotes gender diversity and women’s progression in the legal sector. The organisation, which has its roots in Manchester, is active nationwide and has held regular events in London, Scotland, Wales, the Midlands and Yorkshire.

Following the implementation of lockdown measures in March this year, Women in the Law UK has operated a wide-ranging programme of webinars and online social events, providing a combination of education and wellbeing support. Several of these webinars are held every week.

In addition, it has stepped up production of its popular “Talking Law” podcast, in which Miss Penni interviews senior figures from the legal profession about their careers, insights, and opinions about the profession. Sally Penni

As well as chairing Women in the Law UK, Miss Penni is a successful Barrister-at-law, practising out of Kenworthy’s to provide support to women at all stages of their legal careers Chambers, and is vice-chair of the Association of Women and to address the gap in female representation in leadership Barristers. Outside of the law she carries out a number of non- roles within the profession. It has more than 700 members, several executive director and trustee roles, and sits on the board of thousand followers on LinkedIn, and operates nationwide. Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre. To book places at Women in the Law UK’s online events readers She lives in Manchester with her husband and three children. should visit www.womeninthelawuk.com or book directly via www.eventbrite.co.uk. Individuals and businesses that are Miss Penni is a sought-after public speaker, regularly being asked interested in joining Women in the Law UK, or applying for its to present on the topic of diversity in the legal profession. She Charter for firms committed to gender diversity and wellbeing, also speaks at schools and universities around the UK, with the should email [email protected]. aim of encouraging students from non-traditional backgrounds to consider careers in the law.

In 2019 she was named “Diversity and Inclusion Leader of the Year” at the Northern Leadership Awards. In the same year she also triumphed in the “Woman of Influence” category of the English Women’s Awards – North, and was presented with the “WIN Inspiring Women Worldwide Award” at the Manchester WINConference.

She is also an author, who has written several books on legal and professional development issues as well as, more recently, the highly successful children’s book Rosie and the Unicorn. Profits from the latter have been donated to three charities and it has been read by the Queen and Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge.

Miss Penni said, “I am humbled and honoured to have had my work recognised by Her Majesty. I hope to carry on doing what I am doing and to inspire others in some small way.

“There is still much more to do in the legal sector to remove barriers to social mobility and women’s progression to the most senior positions. I hope that my having received this honour will help spur further action to address what remain serious problems for an otherwise fabulous profession.”

Women in the Law UK was founded in Manchester by Sally Penni Restaurant Review Restaurants on Circuit by David Birrell Lerpwl, Liverpool - Striding forward in difficult times

I am clueless when it comes to new restaurant openings. Fortunately A shy young chef brought out our starters. I felt sorry for the poor lad for me, my wife, Faye, has her finger on the pulse when it comes to who, away from his kitchen, was like a fish out of water. Surely this such things. Lerpwl (pronounced ‘ler-pool’) was on her radar for wasn’t what he signed up for. I pondered this modern trend of months before it belatedly opened its doors in August. The restaurant deploying chefs as auxiliary waiters. Is it really necessary? Such is the latest offering from the Barrie brothers, Liam and Ellis, Scousers encounters are invariably awkward. But I digress. My beetroot who made a name for themselves with their hugely successful starter came in a smoking glass cloche and I briefly feared the worst. Marram Grass restaurant on Anglesey. I have not had the pleasure of Style over substance? Not a bit of it. It was exceptional. The best visiting but those who have tell me that it is top notch. compliment I can pay it is to say that it tasted as good as it looked. And it looked magnificent, as did all the dishes. There is artistry at Lerpwl, taken from the Welsh word for Liverpool, is situated in the work at Lerpwl. After our starters were taken away it dawned on me Albert Dock which is undergoing a long overdue culinary that the restaurant was beginning to empty out. It had only just transformation. Slowly but surely the anonymous chains are being turned 8pm. This isn’t how things are meant to be, I thought. pushed out and replaced by small local independents. Faye and I enjoyed a sublime lunch there in the week it opened. I spent the next Mains are comprised of 3 separate courses. My ‘Beef’, for example, month telling anyone who would listen that this was a seriously good was served up as a tartare, a Scouse (a type of stew, for non- restaurant that would soon come to the attention of the Michelin Liverpudlians) and a sirloin. Taken together, the courses were a So inspectors. When I mentioned it to my civil practitioner pal, he tcelebration The of tartare the wasRed prettified Poll cow - unnecessarily, which Google I thought tells - with me nasturtiums is a rare and dual- served on immediately suggested that we return and review it. I needed no dpurpose breed (beef & milk). So there you are. The tartare was persuasion. prettified - unnecessarily, The Iwarm thought and enticing - with Scouse nasturtiums was almost, but and not servedquite, as goodon as mdelicate crisps As which for the tasted p exactly like cheese Quavers. Please Thanks to a cancellation, we bagged a table on a Friday evening at understand, this is intended as a compliment and Meaty not and a sweet,criticism. it came The with a 7pm. Upon arrival I was put through the usual COVID rigmarole – mwarm and enticing Scouse was almost, but not quite, as good as my check-in using NHS app, sanitise hands, put face mask on to walk 3 grandmother’s. As for the pièce de résistance, the sirloin was yards to table – but even this could not dampen my mood. After all, it perfectly cooked but paled in comparison to my pal’s lobster tail was Friday night and I was dining with a good mate in a quality which was simply glorious. Meaty and sweet, it came with a moreish restaurant. But as I sat and awaited my pal’s arrival, I noticed that foam best described as a bisque latte. something was amiss. Despite the early hour, the 45-cover dining room was rammed full. It had the buzz of weekend dinner service in full swing at, say, 9.30pm. The other diners seemed giddy with excitement. Or drunk. Or both. I was momentarily perplexed until the penny dropped. Ah yes, the nonsensical and arbitrary 10pm curfew. It wasn’t so long ago that we were all encouraged to eat out to help out. Now it seems we must do our bit by getting an early night.

By 9.15pm we were practically the only remaining patrons. The waiter half-heartedly asked if we would like deserts and seemed a little disappointed when we said yes. When they arrived, the deserts were stunning, both in appearance and on the palate, but could not distract us from the fact that the restaurant was well and truly winding down for the night. The lights had been turned up, the music turned down and the numerous chefs were busy wiping down their stations in the open kitchen. We departed shortly before 10pm My pal soon arrived and the knowledgeable and affable waiter feeling a little underwhelmed, which is no reflection whatsoever on offered to explain the menu, which does require some explaining. I Lerpwl or the talented Barrie brothers. The food was wonderful, the am all for brevity in restaurant menus, but Lerpwl’s takes the biscuit. service warm and professional. My criticism is aimed at the For example, to start dinersI am all for may brevity choose in restaurant from menus, such but tantalising Lerpwl’s takes dishes the biscuit. preposterous regulations that continue to threaten the future of Fas ‘Mackerel’, ‘Crab’, ‘Ox Cheek’ or ‘Beetroot.’ Mmmmm mmmm. restaurants everywhere. The sooner things get back to normal, the Needless to say, we took theNeedless waiter to say, up we on took his the offer waiter to up talk on hisus offerthrough to talk us better. tit all. I applaud I applaud any any brave brave dinerdiner who who declines. declines. I plumped I plumped for Beetroot for (you’re Beetroot welcome, v(you’re welcome, veggie readers) and Beef whereas my pal, who must Verdict 9/10 have had a lucrative week in court, went for Crab followed by Lobster. Appetisers, courtesy of the house, were sensational, especially the Lerpwl, Britannia Pavillion, Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD crunchy pigs head croquettes with smoked apple puree. Lerpwl.com 0151 909 6241

14 In Brief My beetroot starter came in a smoking glass cloche and I briefly feared the worst. Style o Not a bit of it. It was exceptional. The best compliment I can pay it is to say that it t And it looked magnificent, as did all the dishes. There is artistry at work a After our starters were taken away it dawned on me that the restaurant was beginning to e

My ‘Beef’, for example, was served up as a tartare, a S Christmas Quiz Circuit Charity Christmas Quiz General knowledge, some slightly cryptic, some with a festive theme. Marks available for each in square brackets.

£5 minimum donation to the Northern Circuit Hardship Fund to enter. A bottle of Champagne from me to the winner.

1. In ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’, what is the total number of the gifts by the end of the song? [1]

2. Who wrote the poem ‘The Night Before Christmas’? [1]

3. Who was the first monarch to make a Christmas Day broadcast? [1]

4. Which country provides the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square every year? [1]

5. In which year was Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ first published? [1]

6. Until the late 19th century, turkey was not the usual meat at the Christmas Day meal. What was? [1]

7. When was the first Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at King’s College Cambridge? [1]

8. When was the first commercially available Christmas Card published? [1]

9. Where does Her Majesty the Queen traditionally spend the Christmas holiday? [1]

10. Which traditional Christmas-time words are scrambled here? HER FAST RICH MAST; LET SIN; PEAR RING PAW; BAN CREASE CURRY [4]

11. Which Northern Circuit Judges’ names are scrambled here? O THE MAST AGUE; NEW DREAMY RAN, DR TITO VAPED; I HEAR DORCAS RINGO; HEAR THE DOLLY; SMILE NOW LEN; EVEN VET TREES [7]

12. Who is the Remembrancer of the Northern Circuit? [1] 21. Which two people connect ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ and ‘You Only Live Twice’ [2] and, for another point, which 13. When did Chester become part of the Northern Circuit? [1] person connects ‘Goldfinger’ to ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’? [1]

14. Which monarch was on the throne when Preston Sessions 22. What is the connection between noted Northern Circuiteer House was opened? [1] David Maxwell-Fyffe (Lord Kilmuir) and ‘My Fair Lady’? [1]

15. Who is referred to officially as the Duke of Rothesay in 23. What is the oldest club still playing in the Football League? Scotland? [1] [1]

16. What is the most popular Quality Street chocolate? [1] 24. Who, in 1996, became the first black manager of a Premier League football club? [1] 17. If someone offered you a Palo Cortado, would they expect you to wear it, smoke it, or drink it? [1] 25. Where was the Eiffel Tower originally intended to be installed? [1] 18. If you are entitled to the letters MHK after your name, what is your job? [1] Answers by email to me at 19. A statue of whom stands permanently in the courtyard of the Royal Academy? [1] [email protected] by 31.12.2020. 20. Spencer Percival is unique among British Prime Ministers. Why? [1] Please mark payments with your name and ‘Quiz’ Account number: 45366268 Sort code: 60-13-19

In Brief 15 How are you, really?

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