Chris Fogarty reports

Liverpool barrister Graham Morris, who died earlier this month aged 44, has been praised as a talented lawyer with a first-class legal mind.

Morris, who was with common law set Martin's Building, had been seriously ill with bone cancer.

"We will remember him as a devoted family man, valued friend and a lawyer of exceptional ability," said Judge David Lynch, who had belonged to Morris' set.

"A first-class legal mind and abundance of common sense do not always go hand in hand but Graham had both in full measure," he added.

Richard Henriques QC, leader of the Northern Circuit, also paid tribute to Morris, saying he was one of the circuit's favourite sons.

He said Morris, whose wife Helen is also a barrister, would undoubtedly have become a judge or a QC.

Morris specialised in commercial law after being called to the Bar in 1975 and was appointed an assistant recorder shortly before his illness was diagnosed a year ago.

Richard Fordham QC, head of chambers at Martin's Building, said Morris was an outstanding advocate.