40 years ago on 24 July 1986, Margaret Thatcher was Prime Minister and had been for 7 years. Madonna was at number 1 in the UK charts when we used to buy vinyl records. And petrol was still leaded and sold for around 37p a litre but measured in gallons. Different times indeed.

Meanwhile, at the Middle Temple, Maria Savvides was being called to the Bar. In an instant, she smashed through many glass ceilings. Educated at a State Comprehensive school. Worked at Tesco from the age of 14. Second generation immigrant whose first language and name were obviously Greek, and no family history in the law.In the years that have passed, she has developed a formidable reputation as a cross-examiner and contributed so much to the Bar. She has helped train over 50 pupils, including one who went on to become an MP and Attorney General. And of course, she has been our much-loved Head of Chambers since the turn of the century.So today here at Northampton Chambers we raise a glass to Maria and congratulate her on a huge achievement of 40 successful years at the Bar. There is no slowing down in sight, and she is still at the front of the queue to take on an urgent ICO because she wants to carry on doing what she came to the Bar for: to help those in need.Take a bow, Maria!#northamptonchambers #40yearsatthebar #ItsAFamilyThing #lifeatthebar #celebrating ... See MoreSee Less