Law Firm Crutes has expanded its employment law team with the appointment of an assistant solicitor.

YVONNE ATHERTON studied law at Newcastle University, where she gained a first.

The 26-year-old, who lives in Durham, said she was enjoying the variety of work at Crutes, which has offices in Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Carlisle.

Ms Atherton is based at the Newcastle head office, Great North House.

Tim Smith, partner and head of employment law at Crutes, said: "This is her second position since leaving university and Crutes is an ideal firm for her to continue learning more about her specialism, employment law."

Crutes employs 160 staff and has 18 partners.