* Personal injury law firm Irwin Mitchell (IM), based on Grey Street, Newcastle, has strengthened its team with the appointment of three assistant solicitors.

Twenty-nine-year old PAUL BROWN joins the neuro-trauma team along with EMILY SUNDERLAND who brings more than nine years' experience in personal injury to the position.

Both will operate closely with managing partner John Davis.

Recent graduate LUCY HINDMARCH, from Durham, will specialise in work place injuries and industrial diseases, working alongside Irwin Mitchell partner Roger Maddocks.