Leading Lancashire lawyer Gillibrand to retire

LEGAL veteran Martin Gillibrand is stepping down as senior partner of
Lancaster and Kirkby Lonsdale law firm Oglethorpe, Sturton and Gillibrand,

Mr Gillibrand, 67, an expert in farming and agricultural law who has been practising for more than 40 years, will bid farewell to the firm on Friday (May 30).

Born in the Lune Valley, he spent his early life on the other side of the Pennines in Harrogate, where his father was also a solicitor.

In the 1970s the family returned to Lancaster when his father joined long established Lancaster firm Sturton and Gibson which, when it merged with Clarke Oglethorpe, became Oglethorpe, Sturton and Gillibrand.

Martin Gillibrand was educated at Shrewsbury and then read law at Pembroke College, Cambridge, and Guildford College of Law.  He joined leading City law firm Allen and Overy as an articled clerk ultimately working in litigation.

A year after qualifying, he moved north and joined his father’s practice, establishing himself as an expert in law relating to common land.

In 1986 he formed, and is still secretary, of the Moorland Association, representing 95% of heather moorland owners in England and Wales. The Association looks after members’ political and legal issues relating to heather moorland.

Mr Gillibrand has acted for many of the association members. His work has included everything from land sales and purchases, lettings, landlord and tenant disputes to partnership advice.

Latterly he has undertaken pro bono counsel which focuses on law formulation and implementation. His advice is expected to have an impact on the content of the new Common Agricultural Policy which comes into force next year and on the roll-out of the Common Act in Cumbria and North Yorkshire.

He said: “I have loved my work. My experience enables me to know how things work in practice and dealing with politicians can be great fun. I even challenged a Home Secretary (Kenneth Clarke) once on the need for legislation on aggravated trespass and persuaded him that his view on the issue was wrong.

“For more than 150 years OSG has worked for farming families in this area, which is very much agriculturally-dependent.

“I’m really proud that we have developed such a strong team who will ensure our clients continue to get the high level of service for which we are renowned and respected,” he added.

Mr Gillibrand and his wife, Althea, who live in th Tatham Fells above Wray, have four children.  He enjoys gardening and all aspects of country life, including shooting.

He is not cutting all ties with the firm and will take up a consultancy role.