Sir – I had dealings with Witney solicitor Raymond Ridley (Gazette, December 19) from time to time since 1991 and found him efficient, helpful and pleasant. All the work he did for me has been entirely satisfactory.

Several of his other clients have spoken warmly to me of their experience of doing business with Mr Ridley.

I suggest this fine man faced challenges that those solicitors in partnerships do not, and is the victim of circumstances which slowly overwhelmed him.

John Richards, Swinbrook Court, Langdale Gate, Witney