Mr Bashford spent his entire legal career at C&H Jefferson Solicitors, joining the firm in 1953 and retiring in 2003.

In a statement, the Law Society said: “He was well known and respected throughout the legal profession in Northern Ireland for providing town agent services on behalf of many out-of-Belfast practitioners.

“He was recognised for his encyclopedic knowledge of County and High Court Rules and procedures and served as an invaluable mentor and friend to several generations of former colleagues at C&H Jefferson.

“Condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”