A team of ‘absolute experts in their fields’, Thrings LLP advises major landed estates, agribusinesses, charities and banks on a wide range of matters. The firm has particularly strength in agricultural litigation, including proprietary estoppel claims and agricultural tenancy disputes. The team is led by Duncan Sigournay in Bath, who specialises in contentious and non-contentious agricultural tenancy matters. ’Master tactician’ Russell Reeves is a seasoned litigator, as is Robert James, who is well-versed in proprietary estoppel claims. Neil Barbour adds expertise in agricultural property transactions. Polly Ridgway joined the practice from Clarke Willmott LLP in February 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘All the members of the team at Thrings are absolute experts in their fields.’
‘The team at Thrings, although clearly outstanding, are so approachable and easy to talk to. Their advice is understandable and clear.’
‘Given the complexities of agricultural tenancy and partnership law, Thrings have the expertise available to offer the correct advice.’
‘Honest and thorough appraisal of situations which gives confidence in decision making.’
‘The team has fantastic experience in the full range of agricultural disputes, and their specialism in this field really stands out when dealing with contentious disputes about inheritance to farms and partnership disputes.'
'Russell Reeves is a stand-out partner. He is extremely hard-working and organised and fights his client’s corner very hard.’
Key clients
- National Farmers Union
- Country Land and Business Association
- The Badminton Estate
- Denhay Farms Ltd
- Countryside Education Trust
- EU Plants Ltd
- Norfolk Rovers Consortium
- Nature Impact
- Koppert
Work highlights
Representing the defendants in a multi-million-pound proprietary estoppel claim concerning farmland and quarries in Lincolnshire.
Acting for major banks in the UK on agricultural land transactions and security issues.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Robert James
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Polly Ridgway
Practice head
Duncan Sigournay
Other key lawyers
Russell Reeves; Robert James; Neil Barbour; Polly Ridgway