HIGH-profile Southampton law firm Eric Robinson has passed a historic milestone by appointing the first ever female full partner in its 40-year history.

After nine years' service, Catherine Maxfield has accepted the offer to join the top ranks of the firm.

There are just six full or equity partners, who own, invest financially in, and have a share in the business.

Catherine, who is based at the firm's Chandler's Ford office, said that she was excited to be the first woman at the top.

"It's always exciting to be the one breaking new ground," she said. "I haven't given it much thought, but when I do, I feel very positive about it.

"I have always been confident I would fulfil my ambition to become an equity partner. I always had the enthusiasm and determination you need for the position, but I believe my success at Eric Robinson has been because I genuinely like the people I work with, support the values of the firm and enjoy both my practice of law and in-house responsibilities.

"From an early age I always knew I wanted to be a litigation lawyer and I was fortunate to have parents that have been very supportive, encouraging me from early childhood to achieve my goals."