A solicitor at Black Country law firm Higgs & Sons is coming back down to earth after choosing to celebrate his appointment on to the management committee of a leading campaigning organisation, by jumping out of a plane.

Andy Shaw (29) who works in Higgs' personal injury department was recently appointed as regional co-ordinator for MASS - the Motor Accident Solicitors Society.

The appointment coincided with another milestone for the Stourbridge based solicitor as he took part in his first ever free fall parachute jump, made on behalf of another charity he has close links to - the Occupational Environmental Disease Association (OEDA).

"I worked closely with both OEDA and MASS throughout 2006 and I was thrilled to be asked to become regional co-ordinator for MASS at the end of last year.

"The idea for the charity jump came from my work with OEDA and I decided it would a great way to offer my support to an organisation which does a lot of great work for and on behalf of those affected by occupational diseases," states Andy.

The charity jump which raised £500 for OEDA was a tandem free fall sky dive from 10,000 ft which the personal injury specialist describes as 'exhilarating':

"Although the first 30 seconds of free fall were something of a blur, the whole thing was such an amazing experience that I am now intent on qualifying as a sky diver.

"As a personal injury solicitor I am always advising clients on the importance of safety. But, after my recent parachute jump I think I may also start recommending the benefits of falling out of a plane at over 120mph - but only on personal level of course," concludes Andy.

OEDA provides information and advice to victims of asbestos disease and their families. Andy Shaw has acted on behalf of several families affected by asbestos related conditions during his time at Higgs.

MASS is a national association of solicitors who specialise in road traffic accident claims. As the Midlands ' regional coordinator, Andy will attend management committee meetings and contribute to the on-going policy and development of the non-profit making organisation as it seeks to support victims of road traffic accidents.

Higgs & Sons personal injury team is one of the largest in the region, providing specialist support and advice on a range of matters including personal injury, clinical negligence and compensation claims.

ENDS

Further information

Mark Hand

Connect PR

01902 714957

markh@connect-goup.com

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