• Swindon & Wiltshire Property
• Wednesday October 28 2026

Rugby legend to open law firm’s new office

A former England rugby captain will swap the goal line for a line of ribbon next month, when he officially opens Goughs Solicitors’ new Bradford on Avon office – making the firm the town’s only full-service law practice.

The award-winning Wiltshire firm will launch its eighth office at Kingston Mill Lofts on Kingston Road on Friday, November 27, timed to coincide with Bradford on Avon’s Christmas lights celebrations – of which Goughs is the lead sponsor.

Goughs, founded in Calne in 1882, says the new base will bring expert advice across family law, residential property, private client, real estate, and corporate and commercial law under one town-centre roof.

Matthew Drew (pictured), managing partner at Goughs Solicitors, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be opening our doors in Bradford on Avon and bringing the town its only full-service law firm. This is an exciting milestone for Goughs and reflects our continued commitment to making high-quality legal advice accessible to the communities we serve.”

He added: “Whether someone is buying their first home, planning for the future, facing a personal challenge or making important decisions about their business, having access to trusted legal expertise locally can make all the difference.”

“Our strength lies in the breadth of our services and the expertise of our people. We’re delighted to bring that offering to Bradford on Avon and look forward to building lasting relationships with individuals, families and businesses throughout the town and surrounding area.”

The expansion comes after a strong run for Goughs, which has more than 100 employees across Wiltshire and was named among The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 for the third consecutive year. It was also crowned Legal Provider of the Year at the Bath Life Awards 2026.

Drew said the Christmas lights event was the ideal moment to join the community. “We couldn’t think of a better occasion to officially open our doors than the Bradford on Avon Christmas lights celebrations,” he said.

“Community has always been at the heart of Goughs, and we’re delighted to be supporting an event that brings so many people together.”

He added: “We’re really looking forward to meeting more of our new neighbours, celebrating with the town and beginning an exciting new chapter for Goughs in Bradford on Avon.”