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2025 has marked a significant milestone for Clarkson Wright & Jakes (CWJ) as the firm celebrates its 150th anniversary.
Founded in 1875, the firm can trace its roots back to Lincoln's Inn, the historic heart of London's legal quarter. For the last 74 years its home and soul are in the leafy suburbs of Orpington, where Neville Clarkson Wright (Andrew’s father) took over from his father and established a branch office in the High Street. In 1979, the office moved to Knoll Rise, where it still stands today. Being only 20 minutes away from central London by train, and 5 minutes from the M25, clients and staff alike benefit from the location of the firm and ease of accessibility.
With a team of over 80 people, including 15 partners, it is one of the largest law firms in Kent under one roof. Providing legal advice to people and organisations across a variety of sectors and ranging in size from sole traders to family-owned businesses and large corporates, CWJ has demonstrated its versatility.
To commemorate the anniversary, CWJ has hosted a series of events and initiatives throughout 2025, bringing together staff, clients, referrers, and the wider community.
Charity Treasure Hunts
As part of the celebrations, CWJ held a charity treasure hunt around Orpington for clients and, and local business partners. Teams followed clue trails across recognisable town landmarks, including the Saxon Day Centre, All Saints Church, and the War Memorial. The event raised £1,200 for St Christopher’s Hospice, the firm’s chosen charity for 2025, thanks to the generosity of participants and local sponsors.
The success of the event inspired an internal staff treasure hunt, bringing the same sense of teamwork into the office. Both activities reflected CWJ’s long-standing commitment to charity and community engagement.
The Great Orpington Bake Off
Another highlight of the anniversary year was The Great Orpington Bake Off, held at CWJ’s Knoll Rise office in support of St Christopher’s Hospice. Staff, clients and members of the community contributed more than 20 homemade cakes.
CWJ Managing Partner Amanda Mehlin, together with representatives from the hospice, judged the entries. Liz Baker was awarded first place for her cake featuring the hospice’s star logo. The event raised £312, with all proceeds donated to St Christopher’s Hospice. The Bake Off was a well-supported and enjoyable way for the CWJ community to continue its fundraising efforts during the anniversary year.
Celebrating Milestone Moments
Throughout 2025, CWJ marked a series of 150themed milestones to mark the anniversary year. Each month, the 150th client to visit the office received a complimentary bottle of champagne. We also presented a gift to the client who connected with the 150th new matter opened during the year
These small but meaningful gestures offered a genuine thank you to clients for their continued loyalty and for their part in the firm’s history.
150th Anniversary Drinks Reception
CWJ hosted a special anniversary drinks reception for clients and contacts to thank them for their ongoing support. The evening brought together longstanding contacts and newer relationships, with partners speaking about the importance of trusted professional networks and the role they continue to play in the firm’s development. The event was a happy and well-attended occasion, reflecting the strong relationships built over many years.
Staff Reunion Lunch
A staff reunion lunch was held earlier in the year, welcoming former colleagues and retired partners back to the firm. It provided an opportunity to reconnect, share memories and celebrate CWJ’s heritage. Andrew Wright addressed the attendees, recognising the contribution of past and present staff in shaping the firm. The lunch highlighted the strong sense of continuity and collegiality that remains at the heart of CWJ.
Anniversary Ball
The culmination of the 150th anniversary finished with a formal anniversary ball which took place in December. Staff, friends and family of the firm joined together to celebrate this historic milestone. The event was an opportunity to reflect on the firm’s past 150 years and look ahead to the future with confidence.