Friends and colleagues of John Halfhead, formerly a senior partner and now consultant at Swindon solicitors Lemon and Co, gathered recently at the Steam Museum to mark his retirement after 48 years of association with the company.

When he joined Lemon and Co in 1953 Swindon's population was 70,000, the main employer was the Great Western Locomotive Carriage and Wagon works, with almost 50 per cent of the town's workforce walking through its gates each day. Unemployment stood at one per cent.

"Things were very different then compared to the hi-tech world of today," he told the gathering.

"Many of my clients from those early days are still with the firm, and have become good friends.

"I am most grateful to all my partners, both former and present, for being such wonderful colleagues and friends.

"And also for the loyalty of many members of staff over the years."

Lemon and Co senior partner Richard Fry noted that Mr Halfhead was instrumental in helping a number of local businesses become established in Swindon.

"These are companies which have since played an important part in helping the town develop into the commercial centre it is today. He also worked closely with some of the local farming community, a role he enjoyed."