A world-leader in human flight will provide a breath-taking air-born display across Lincoln’s Brayford Pool as part of celebrations to mark the expansion of leading regional law firm Wilkin Chapman solicitors.
High-tech Jet Suits are used by Gravity Industries to power their team members, led by globally-renowned pioneer Richard Browning, into flight for displays that take their audiences’ breath away.
On Thursday, April 11, during the Easter school holidays, crowds will line the Brayford Pool area to witness the unique phenomenon – part of Wilkin Chapman’s ‘Evolve’ event. At noon, they will see Richard take off in his jet-powered suit in an upward motion before blasting over the water from the University Bridge, flying under the bridge and landing in front of Wilkin Chapman’s expanded premises, at The Maltings, on Brayford Wharf East. The human flyer reaches speeds of up to 32 mph. Warm-up demonstrations by the Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue Service and the Lincoln Sea Cadets will take place from 11.30am.
Announcing the event, Wilkin Chapman Chief Executive, Des Mannion, said: “This will be fantastic, something that has never been witnessed in Lincolnshire before. We are thrilled to be marking the opening of our expanded premises in this way.”
Des’ words were echoed by Senior Partner and Head of the Lincoln office Andrew Holt, who added: “The expansion of our Lincoln office is testament to the hard work and dedication of all the team both in the city and regionally and is a mark of the firm’s standing in its chosen markets.”
A long-established Lincolnshire firm, which sits just outside the UK’s Top 100 law firms, Wilkin Chapman opened its offices at The Maltings, in 2011, after its merger with Gilbert Blades in 1998. With the business now employing 94 people at its city office, it has outgrown its present two floors. The £240,000 expansion onto the ground floor will house the firm’s Personal Injury and Medical Negligence teams, which is headed up by Partners Steve Hennegan and Tean Butcher:
“As a law firm that cares about its people and clients, this is an extremely exciting time. Personal Injury is often a sensitive area of law and often involves, not only legal complexities, but building relationships with those we represent and their families over what can be lengthy periods of time. Our relocation and expansion onto the ground floor of The Maltings will enhance the work we do for the benefit of local people who need our help, advice and support,” said Steve.
The Maltings is managed by Commercial Property agents, Banks Long & Co where Director William Wall has overseen the expansion. He said: “We are delighted to have leased further office space at The Maltings to this well-respected law firm. It has been a very successful development for our clients as the building occupies a sought-after position overlooking the Brayford Pool close to the amenities of the city centre. The acquisition clearly cements Wilkin Chapman’s commitment to Lincoln, increasing its offer to clients in the surrounding area. Banks Long & Co and the landlords wish the company the best of luck with its continued growth.”
April’s ‘Evolve’ event will be a celebration of the expansion. During the ‘human Gravity flight’ highway restrictions will apply, and crowds will be guided to designated viewing areas.
Richard, Gravity’s founder and a pioneer of aeronautical innovation, is thrilled to be coming to Lincoln – himself and his colleagues travel the globe, performing demonstrations in front of such people as Tom Cruise, and delivering inspirational talks.
The former British Royal Marine and oil trader said: “This is Lincoln’s opportunity to witness unparalleled human flight right in front of peoples’ eyes. I promise you, all who see it will be inspired to question just what else is possible. We are delighted to have been invited to the city by Wilkin Chapman solicitors.”
