Tributes paid to well known member of business community who has passed away

Tributes have been paid to a well known member of the Bristol business community who has passed away.

A spokesman for Law firm Clarke Willmott said that staff were devastated to learn that friend and colleague Partner Neil Baker passed away on Monday.

Neil, who joined the firm in 1999, was widely respected and recognised as one of the country’s leading planning lawyers with a Tier 1 Ranking in Chambers and Hall of Fame recognition in Legal 500.

He was also a much-loved and valued member of the firm, where he led the planning team.

As an active figure in the Bristol business community, he was particularly well-known in the property world, organising the South West Planning Dinner as well as for his involvement with Bristol Round Table and 41 Club.

Most importantly, Neil was a much-loved member of his family, husband to Sarah and proud father to James and Meggie (Megan).

Peter Swinburn, CEO at Clarke Willmott commented: “It has been a terribly difficult 24 hours for all of us at Clarke Willmott.

“Our immediate efforts are focussed on supporting Neil’s family and those colleagues who worked most closely with him. In due course we will be able to reflect on the huge contribution made by Neil to our firm and the broader community in Bristol and beyond.

“All our thoughts are first and foremost with them at this very difficult time.”