HCR Law is delighted to announce the first winner of HCR Spark – an exciting programme launched to inspire and support young people interested in a career in law.
Ella Hamilton, a Year 12 A-level student at John Kyrle High School in Ross-on-Wye, has been named the 2025 Shawcross Prize winner. Ella impressed the judging panel with a video submission detailing her interest in the legal profession and her aspirations for the future. She was selected as the winner by Arpinder Dhillon, Partner and Head of HCR Law’s Wye Valley office.
As part of her prize, Ella will receive a £500 cash award, a week-long work experience placement at HCR Law’s Wye Valley office, ongoing mentoring and career guidance and a HCR Spark trophy.
The Shawcross Prize was named in honour of Keith Shawcross, a highly respected solicitor who served the Wye Valley region for over five decades and was the final senior partner of Shawcross & Co prior to its merger with HCR Law. Keith’s legacy of legal excellence and community engagement continues to inspire this programme.
The award was presented to Ella at a prize-giving ceremony at John Kyrle High School, attended by Arpinder and Ann Shawcross, Keith’s wife.
Ella will now gain first-hand experience of working in the legal sector, learning from professionals and exploring different areas of law during her placement.
Following the success of the inaugural year, HCR Spark will return in 2026, with plans to expand the programme to include more schools across the Herefordshire region.
Arpinder commented “Ella’s video clearly demonstrated her enthusiasm and commitment to want to explore a career in the legal profession. We’re delighted to support Ella’s journey and provide this valuable opportunity. HCR Spark is a fitting tribute to Keith’s legacy, and we’re excited to continue inspiring future generations of legal professionals.”
Image (L-R): Helen Bolt (Head of Sixth Form at JKHS), Emma Skelton (Acting Head of Sixth Form at JKHS), Ella Hamilton, Ann Shawcross, Arpinder Dhillon