HCR Law Announces Winners of the 2026 HCR Spark Award

HCR Law is delighted to announce the winners of the 2026 HCR Spark Award, an inspiring initiative designed to support and encourage young people considering a career in the legal profession.

Following an exceptional response from schools and colleges across Herefordshire and the Wye Valley, three Year 12 students have been selected as this year’s winners. Each recipient will receive a £500 cash award, a week-long work experience placement at HCR Law’s Wye Valley or Hereford office, ongoing mentoring and career guidance, and an HCR Spark trophy.

Arpinder Dhillon, Head of HCR Law’s Wye Valley office, selected their two winners: Lauren Woodhouse from Monmouth Comprehensive School and Jack Lawrence from Haberdashers’ Monmouth School. Jenny Staples, Head of HCR Law’s Hereford office, and Chris Finch, Partner and Head of Family Law Hereford, selected their winner, Meg Sheeran from Hereford Sixth Form College.

The students impressed the judging panel with video submissions showcasing their enthusiasm for the legal profession, their achievements to date and their future aspirations.

The award, known as the Shawcross Prize, is named in honour of Keith Shawcross, a highly respected solicitor who served the Wye Valley community for more than 50 years. As the last Senior Partner of Shawcross & Co before its merger with HCR Law, Keith’s commitment to legal excellence and community engagement continues to inspire future generations through the HCR Spark programme.

Awards were presented at individual ceremonies. Lauren and Jack received their prizes from Arpinder Dhillon, accompanied by Ann Shawcross, Keith’s wife. Meg’s award was presented by Chris Finch and Paralegal Lottie Stevens.

The winners will gain valuable first-hand insight into life at a law firm, working alongside experienced legal professionals and exploring a range of practice areas during their placements.

Arpinder Dhillon said: “After submitting their video entries and attending an interview with Oliver Robinson and me at our Wye Valley office, Lauren and Jack demonstrated ambition, confidence and determination, making them worthy winners of the Shawcross Prize. Congratulations to Lauren and Jack. We look forward to welcoming them to the firm and running the HCR Spark initiative again next year.”

Jenny Staples added: “Meg’s video clearly demonstrated her enthusiasm for, and commitment to, exploring a career in the legal profession. We’re delighted to support her journey and provide this valuable opportunity. We’re excited to continue inspiring future generations of legal professionals.”

The work experience placements took place during HCR’s summer vacation scheme week, and provided the HCR Spark winners with practical exposure to the legal sector, helping them develop skills that will support their future studies and careers.