As the year comes to a close, we reflect once again on what the last 12 months have brought, and what may be ahead for 2025.

This year we have seen an intensification in the economic pressures faced by local communities, businesses, farming operations and families. We have been particularly busy helping many of our clients to prepare for legislative reforms and changes announced by the new Government, but there is much more still to be done.

Unsettling and wide-reaching tax reforms are on the horizon which will likely impact many of our clients and their businesses. Whilst almost every business will be affected by the rise in National Minimum Wage and Employer National Insurance Contributions, especially the farming community, which is grappling with the seismic impact of the proposed reforms to Inheritance Tax. Whilst the detail remains to be shared by Government, our work to help our clients prepare for the changes that lie ahead is already underway.

Against this backdrop of change, our Agricultural Property, Private Client, Commercial Property and Corporate departments have continued to excel, earning recognition in the Legal 500 guide for another year. We are also delighted that our Agricultural Property team were acknowledged by the specialist guide, Chambers and Partners, for both their expertise and outstanding client care. We thank our colleagues in all of our departments for their hard work and dedication this year.

Throughout all of the challenges and successes of 2024, what shines through the brightest for us as a Firm is the importance of a strong and supportive community; whether this is the farming community working together to challenge legislative reform, or the local community of Kirkby Lonsdale coming together to help and support those affected by the recent tragic fire on Main Street. We continue to be amazed by the strength and resilience of the communities that we are proud to have been a part of for over 200 years.

So, as we come to the end of another year, we would like to take this opportunity to say a special thank you to our clients, colleagues, and contacts.
From all of us at Oglethorpe, Sturton & Gillibrand, we would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.