The former managing partner of Warwickshire law firm Wright Hassall is to retire.

Peter Beddoes will retire following 35 years at the Leamington-based practice, 17 of which were spent at the helm of the company.

His career coincided with the growth of the firm from 30 staff and five partners, to 230 staff and 35 partners.

Mr Beddoes said: "It's the end of my working life there but I leave with Wright Hassall in great shape.

"We have a fantastic team across all the sector disciplines, which I believe is one of the strongest in the country. I think we are ideally placed to take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves to the firm in the future."

Mr Beddoes joined Wright Hassall in 1979 and within three years was a partner and a part owner two years later.

He added: "I was made managing partner in 1991 and, supported by young and progressive partners, we really shaped the company.

"I have always been interested in management and the way companies work. In fact, even though I studied law, I would regard myself first and foremost as a businessman."

Mr Beddoes will remain busy as chairman of builder AC Lloyd, a non-exec director with medical equipment manufacturer Entaco and running development and investment firm Queens Street Group.