The Belfast Solicitors’ Association (BSA) has handed over a record sum of £15,000 to its 2017 charity partner, Inspire.

At the BSA’s recent AGM in the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s offices, outgoing chair Eoghan McKenna presented the charity’s Lisa McElherron with a cheque for £15,000 raised throughout 2017. It is the largest amount ever raised by the BSA for charity in a single year.

Mr McKenna, managing director of Belfast firm MSM Law, said: “It is a privilege and an honour that my last duty as Chair should be to hand this cheque to our charity partner, Inspire.

“This magnificent sum has been raised through a series of events throughout 2017, including our prestigious golf event, the annual gala dinner, various quizzes and the football match against the Bar.

“The highlight of the year was the launch and presentation of Hanna Fine Art’s limited edition print to the Lord Chief Justice, Sir Declan Morgan in the Royal Courts of Justice.

“I am particularly pleased to maintain my personal support for the charity as my own company, MSM Law, will be the first legal practice in Northern Ireland to become an ‘Inspiration Point’ for mental health and wellbeing.”

Welcoming the donation, Ms McElherron added: “Eoghan and the whole BSA team have been so supportive in terms of raising funds and awareness of mental health throughout 2017.

“During the course of a year one in four people will experience some type of mental health issue. Anyone may be affected, regardless of age, gender, social class or lifestyle.

“Inspire provides mental health, addiction and learning disability support services across Northern Ireland and helps thousands of people every week.

“The support from the individuals in the BSA is invaluable.”

Following a presentation to mark Mr McKenna’s outstanding contribution to the charity, it was announced that Inspire will continue as the BSA’s charity partner for 2018.