Kate reveals her talents not only as a lawyer but also her love for music, she almost become a star herself! Her hard work and dedication is helped by a good cuppa …

Why MASS?

My organisation* were already part of MASS before I moved over to head up the PI team, but I was keen to continue the membership and extend our ties by becoming firstly a deputy regional coordinator, then Regional Coordinator for Manchester, because MASS has such a strong reputation in the PI field, not just related to those injured in a road traffic collision, which is obviously the purpose for which is was formed, but across the entire PI field.

And I heard they did the best annual Conference! Which they do!

Why the Law

I had a wonderful English teacher, Mr Fairhurst, who felt I could articulate myself well and had a way with words, and that a career in the law would suit me very well! He was very encouraging and encouraged me to believe in myself.

At that point, music was very much the focal point in my life, and I had never previously considered doing anything that was outside music, but he convinced me to look at the law.

Best win in Court/most important win to date

Not actually PI related, but when I was a trainee solicitor, I won a really tough housing disrepair/non-payment of rent case for a single Mum, against a ruthless local landlord. After that win he offered me a job!

What 3 items would you take to a desert island?

My mascara, tea bags and my Kindle.

What’s your claim to fame?

I got down to the final 100 once for a series of “Stars in Your Eyes”. Great experience. Had I made it through, “…tonight Matthew, I am going to be Beverley Craven”. Singing Promise Me at the piano.

What’s the best and worst piece of advice you have ever received?

The worst advice was in 1991 when my hairdresser said – “have a perm”!

Best advice was given to me when I was made a Partner, by a fellow Partner who told me never to work part-time, as it would simply mean the same work, in less days for less pay. So, I never did!

What would be your first question after waking up from being cryogenically frozen for 100 years?

Could someone please make me a cup of tea.

Superstitions?

Hate seeing one Magpie, must frantically seek another out or do the whole salute, good morning/day Mrs Magpie meditation!!!

Best ever holiday or place you have visited?

Went to Cuba in November 2003 and my eldest son was only three. It was the best holiday we’ve ever had, and I totally loved everything about Cuba and the wonderful people there. Fantastic holiday and amazing country.

First car?

A maroon Vauxhall Nova. Loved it.

Favourite song/artist?

Being a musician (it was nearly my first occupation) and massive music lover it’s difficult for me to narrow this down to one. Different decades hold favourite songs, but if pushed I would say The Stranglers, Golden Brown is my favourite song of all time.

Favourite Book?

The Kite Runner

Best TV boxset or movie?

Watching Schitt’s Creek through lockdown kept me sane and I’m just watching it again now it was so good.

Favourite drink?

As if you haven’t guessed already, Tea. Preferably Yorkshire.

Favourite Food?

Unfortunately for my waistline I love most food, but beans on toast has to be my go-to comfort food. With HP sauce.

What is the first think you like to do with your free time?

Reconnect with my family, my husband, two boys and our two dogs.
After that it’s exercise, in any form!

What annoys you?

Many things, but mostly litter. Totally unnecessary.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Do a bit more revision for those A levels and degree exams, and don’t take yourself quite so seriously. And don’t have that perm in 1991!

*Kate was at Stephensons Solicitors LLP at the time of writing – she is now Director of Injury Practice Area at Simpson Millar Solicitors.

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