A NORTH-EAST law firm has strengthened its specialist healthcare team.

Ward Hadaway, which has offices in Newcastle, has welcomed Gillian Muir.

Bosses say Ms Muir will help organisations defend claims taken out against them.

Mr Muir joins Ward Hadaway as an associate after 16 years' experience advising on clinical negligence cases.

She previously worked for a firm advising clients lodging claims against the NHS and other healthcare organisations, and has worked on a range of cases, including birth injury, spinal injuries and delayed diagnoses.

She said: “I'm very familiar with Ward Hadaway and the team, having worked on the other side of a series of cases involving the firm.

"I have always been impressed with the knowledge and experience of the healthcare team.

“When the opportunity to join arose, I didn’t think twice about doing.

“There is a terrific team in place here doing some superb work and I hope my experience advising claimants will prove a valuable asset to the team and to the firm's clients in the healthcare sector.”

Jeffrey Keeble, Ward Hadaway partner and head of healthcare, added: “It is great to have someone of Gillian's extensive experience to join the team.

“She will provide a valuable alternative perspective on matters.”

Ward Hadaway provides legal advice to more than 75 NHS Trusts and healthcare organisations across the country.