It was sponsored by the Bar Council, Chartered Institute of Legal Executives and the Law Society.

Bar Chair, Andrew Langdon QC, praised those who ‘undertake pro bono work, often in stressful and difficult circumstances and on top of already demanding work-loads’.

He said: ‘It is vital work, relieving the plight of the fortunate minority who receive it, and we should be proud of the individual contributions made by members of our profession.’

Attorney General Jeremy Wright QC MP said it was ‘an important opportunity for the legal community to highlight its on-going commitment to offering legal advice, and to help increase people’s access to justice.’