Law societies compete for Yorks base

THREE Yorkshire law societies have put in a bid for the Chancery Lane regional secretary to be based in their areas.

Law Society officials have announced that the fifth regional office will be based in the county. But the decision on the exact venue is to be left to the local law societies.

Martin Simpson, secretary of the Yorkshire Union of Law Societies, says a sub-committee was formed to look at the issues and will report in February.

Three local societies, York, Wakefield and Harrogate, have expressed interest. Lawyers say Wakefield is the strongest contender.

Alan Benstock, secretary of Wakefield Law Society, says: "We will be pushing for the office to be situated here."

James Towler, secretary to Leeds Law Society, says they will not be making a bid.

The office is expected to be open by next September.