This year, the firm he founded celebrates its 90th anniversary, after nearly a century in business.
In that time, the firm has acted for some of the oldest families in the county – as well as carving a formidable reputation for its work in the courts.
Former senior partner Michael Morgan recalls that Mr Ferrier and Mr Newnes joined the firm shortly before the Second World War. “War then broke out in September 1939 and Mr Ferrier went to the war leaving Mr Newnes and Messrs Cuff and Bratt who were managing clerks in charge of litigation and probate departments.
“Mr Newnes despite having only one leg was trained as a guerrilla in case the Germans invaded.
“He and one or two local clients were noted for blowing up trees when they practised the use of dynamite.
“Their secret arms dump was situated on the back road from Snettisham to Dersingham. I believe it can still be seen.”
Mr Ferrier meanwhile was seeing plenty of action, landing at D Day and acting as observer for an artillery battery that travelled across France as part of the invasion force.
In the post war years life was duller, but the firm continued to develop, with a number of partners going on to take judicial appointments.
But Mr Morgan comments: “The best thing about the firm is that we have had the most loyal and industrious staff, which has been the envy of other firms.”
A number of existing staff members at Hawkins have been with the firm for around a quarter of a century.
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