Environment has become one of the hottest areas of law. ‘Green’ issues govern company moves in so many areas of growth.

The guide says: “Hewitsons’ Deborah Sharples is ‘easy to deal with’. She advised Stuart Davis in a nuisance claim, and Sunrise Poultry Farms on an improvement condition in its PPC permit. Other clients include South West Water and the owners of a motorsport track.

“At ‘prestigious law firm’ Mills & Reeve, consultant Rebecca Carriage ‘stands out for her detailed knowledge, extensive experience in the courts, and relaxed, patient manner’. She defended Cymru Country Chickens in Holyhead Magistrates Court against allegations of breaches of its environmental permits.

“At Birketts, litigation specialist Richard Eaton heads a team that advises Breckland Council and Shields Environmental Group. Tom Newcombe and Philip Kratz joined from Eversheds LLP and DMH Stallard LLP respectively, boosting the firm’s planning and environment capability in Cambridge. Laura Thomas defends environment-related prosecutions.

“‘Always efficient and commercially focused’, Greenwoods Solicitors LLP provides ‘excellent value for money’. Kathryn Gilbertson and Anna Willetts are best known for their work nationwide in the waste management sector. RK Transport and Bude Skip Hire are clients.

“At Taylor Vinters, litigator Martin Blakemore and commercial property consultant Neill Campbell handle contaminated land issues and environmental disputes.”

• PHOTOGRAPH SHOWS: Kathryn Gilbertson