Employment law expert retiring after 44 years

A well known Peterborough solicitor, who has advised many big name city firms on employment law, has retired after 44 years’ service.

MartinBloom,whoisSenior Partner at Hegarty Solicitors, based in Broadway, joined the company in 1979 since when he has specialised in all aspects of labour law.

He has delivered employment law training to many leading businesses including HMRC, British Sugar, and Thomas Cook and counts being appointed an Employment Judge in 1995 among his most notable achievements. He reckons to have issued more than 1,000 judgements over the years. He also wrote a book – ‘Bullying and Stress in the Workplace’ – which covered the law from discrimination to equal opportunities.

He said: “Even back at university when employment law was known as labour law, I’ve always found that area particularlyinterestingandenjoyable.”

Among the highlights of his career was representing a client charged with fraud of £55m and securing them a not guilty verdict.Healsowonanemployment tribunal case in Belfast duringwhichhewasthreatened by the IRA.

Martin was Hegarty’s first articled clerk, now known as a trainee solicitor, and qualified as a solicitor in 1981 and became a partner two years later. He first worked in criminal and family law before specialising in employment law in the 80s.

On his retirement, Martin said: “I plan to do some work for charity, work on my garden and go on long walks with my dog.”

Kally Singh, who succeeds Martin as senior partner of the firm, said: “Martin has worked so hard over the years to make this firm successful and we all wish him an enjoyable and relaxing retirement.”

Martin Bloom on joining Hegarty’s in 1979, left, and at his retirement after 44 years’ service.