WESTGATE Chambers celebrated its 30th anniversary at The Brighton Metropole Hotel.

Guests of Honour included The Right Honourable Lady Justice Anne Rafferty, His Honour Brian Barker QC, His Honour Judge Jeremy Gold QC and Her Honour Judge Claire Jakens.

In October 1987 John Collins started Westgate Chambers, naming it after its location at the West Gate of Lewes.

The chambers, based in Lewes High Street, is home to more than 40 barristers specialising in criminal, family and civil law.

A spokesman said: “Westgate Chambers provides an unrivalled service to solicitors and those members of society who find themselves involved with the law.

“Our aim is straightforward – excellence in criminal, regulatory, civil, health and safety, planning and family law.

“Westgate Chambers is once again recognised in the Legal 500 as a Leading Set.

“In the 30 years of our existence we have been home to more than 100 lawyers, many of whom have appeared in some of the most notable trials in the United Kingdom.

“Some sit as judges in various capacities.”

Lewes was the premier legal centre in the South East for more than 400 years and it was the natural base to open a new business.