The ‘very strong’, Exeter-led practice at Foot Anstey covers the full gamut of agricultural matters, including succession planning, tax, employment, planning and corporate. The firm is also experienced in natural capital-related issues. The team is helmed by Edward Venmore, who is ’knowledgeable and commercially astute’, handling partnership and property disputes. ‘Very hard-working and diligent’ Danielle Spalding advises on restrictive covenant and proprietary estoppel claims. James Clark joined from Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP in January 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'The team is very approachable and happy to be flexible according to specifics needs.’
‘Edward Venmore and Danielle Spalding offer an excellent service and have gone above and beyond answering queries and offering support.’
‘Foot Anstey's farms, estates and rural land practice is very strong, with a good knowledge of the sector in the south-west.’
‘Edward Venmore has considerable experience in rural land disputes. He is effective, knowledgeable and commercially astute.'
- 'Danielle Spalding is a good lawyer.’
‘Edward Venmore and Kate Lucas offer sound property advice that is provided promptly with sound legal and logical thought behind it.’
Key clients
- National Farmers Union
- Various landowners on Penwith Moors
- The National Trust
- Dartmoor Commoners' Council
- Longford Estate
- HSBC
Work highlights
Advised the National Farmers Union and various farming businesses on contesting Natural England's designation of West Penwith Moors in Cornwall as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Defending Dartmoor Commoners' Council in a judicial review claim commenced by Wild Justice, an environmental charity.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Edward Venmore
Other key lawyers
Rachel Brooks; Danielle Spalding; Kate Lucas; Arron Joliffe; James Clark