A PACKED courtroom paid a heartfelt congratulations to an eminent Bradford solicitor who has clocked up nearly 50 years of service to the city - and is still working to this day.

Friends, family and colleagues of Reg Le Pla, 80, turned out to the surprise ceremony at Bradford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning to mark his 50 years in the legal profession.

Judge Jonathan Durham Hall QC was in attendance and Mr Le Pla was met with a standing ovation before colleagues paid tribute to his career. He was described as enthusiastic, inspiring, witty, humble and a “credit to his profession”.

Former circuit judge Terry Walsh described Mr Le Pla as a pillar of the local legal community and said he had a reputation for being an “animated, passionate and sincere advocate”.

He was presented with an award and said he was overwhelmed by the effort made.

Mr Le Pla, who lives at Chellow Dene, with his wife Marion, 75, has primarily worked as a defence solicitor.

He was born in Sheffield and said he knew it was the path he wanted to follow from a young age.

After qualifying, he worked in Sheffield and came to Bradford in 1969, where he has been ever since. He and Marion, who was a magistrate in Bradford from 1974, met through the courts and tied the knot in 1986. He currently works part-time at Kings Solicitors, Sunbridge Road.

Reflecting on his career, he said: “I’ve enjoyed it, all the time. I’ve loved colleagues, friends and I’ve always loved talking. Until my health fails, I shall carry on. I have no plans to retire yet.”

And on the surprise ceremony he said: “I was overwhelmed with joy and pleasure that I can’t express in words.

“It all came as a total surprise. It was absolutely delightful to hear so many compliments from people who are colleagues and I like to think of them as friends.”