John Palmer (1920 - 2003)

John Palmer joined the firm in 1951 after a distinguished service in the Royal Navy and practice as a solicitor in Canterbury joined the firm in [1951]. He was a guiding light in the development of the firm, and played an important part in turning it into the leading West Country practice it has now become. His many associates amongst the judiciary included Lord Denning, who became a close friend. John Palmer became president of the Law Society of England and Wales in 1978. In this capacity, he travelled extensively, representing the profession. He was made an honorary member of the American and Canadian Bar Association. He was chairman of the governors of Blundell's School, Tiverton. Palmer was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of Devon in 1984, and became Vice Lord-Lieutenant in 1992, retiring in 1995. In 2000 he was made a Freeman of the City of London.