A barrister from chambers in Birmingham has been appointed attorney general of the island of Montserrat in the West Indies.

James Wood started his career in criminal law and is a member of Cornwall Street Chambers.

An attorney at law and notary royal in the Eastern Caribbean, he carried out work as crown counsel in St Lucia. His appointment continues his move into international legal work.

Mr Wood, who lived in Leamington Spa, arrived on the island with wife Jone and children Inigo, six, and Alejandro, three, as the local population still struggled to overcome the Soufriere Hills volcano eruption in 1995.

He said: “I am very pleased to take up this appointment. It will be an incredible opportunity to be involved in varied and challenging issues.
“The work will be related to the continuing development of the island and improvement of the legal system.”

Named after a monastery in Spain by Christopher Columbus in 1493, Montserrat became a British colony in 1632.

It is a self-governing overseas territory, the government of which comprises a governor appointed by the crown, together with an elected executive and legislative council.

“Constitutionally, my post has powers similar to those of the Director of Public Prosecutions in the UK, although the levels of crime are low. It is a beautiful island, enjoying a resurgence to its tourist industry.

“There is the opportunity for diving, whale watching, hiking and, of course, observing the scenic views and sunsets over the Caribbean. Its people are warm and friendly.

“I am thoroughly looking forward to living and working on the island.”

Mr Wood said he had been given support by his colleagues in Cornwall Street Chambers which he joined eight years ago.