SWINDON'S Morris Owen were sponsors at a new awards ceremony run by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners.

The STEP awards, which were held this year for the first time, aim to promote excellence in the complex world of tax planning.

The president's prizewinner in Morris Owen's category was Daniel Li-Yan-Hui from the law firm Hewitsons who was presented with the award by Rob Harman, a partner in the Swindon firm.

The prize is given to the student who has produced the best dissertation while studying for STEP membership.

Mr Harman said: "In an increasingly complex fiscal environment it is essential to strive to continuously deliver excellence in the level of technical expertise when advising clients. STEP sets and maintains the highest standards in the trust and estate sector.

"Two key members of our specialist tax division are STEP graduates and great peace of mind is gained by us and our clients in the knowledge of the high standard set and achieved by STEP members.

"We are delighted to be associated with the society and very pleased when we were approached to be the sponsor of a STEP award."