Trusted corporate law experts since 1996.
About us
First Corporate Law Services was founded in 1996 and has since earned a reputation for dependable, expert corporate law and secretarial services. We’re valued for our knowledge and experience, and responsive, friendly service, which is reflected in our 4.8★ Trustpilot rating.
As specialists in our field, we provide all types of corporate law and post incorporation support, from share restructure, purchase and reduction of share capital to more complex procedures such as Company Restorations and Share for Share Exchanges.
Our FirstOrder Secretarial system has been created to enable you to administer all your registered companies.
We’re a people-first business, and clients appreciate our helpful, approachable team. This, combined with our deep legal knowhow, and transparent, straightforward pricing, is why we’re the first choice for so many legal and accountancy firms.
Meet our team
Led by experienced directors Steve, Paul and Adrian, our team is made up of talented, highly knowledgeable individuals who are central to everything we do. Together, they bring the expertise needed to deliver the full range of corporate law and company secretarial services— and they’re great people to work with, too.

Steven Blackmore

Steven Blackmore
Steve is a co‑founder of FCLS, bringing over 30 years’ experience in corporate law and company secretarial services. Since co‑founding the firm in 1996, Steve has played a key role in shaping the business, including leading the development of the FirstOrder platform.
Alongside his work at FCLS, Steve is highly active in the arts, contributing to the local Bristol and Bath community as a theatre director and actor.
He is also an investing producer on a wide range of productions in the West End and on Broadway through The Worx Productions Ltd.

Paul Dunn

Paul Dunn
Paul has been with FCLS for over 15 years, having joined the firm in 2011 after more than a decade of experience in corporate law.
During his time at FCLS, he has played a senior role in the ongoing success of the FirstOrder platform, helping to shape it into a trusted, market‑leading solution for company secretarial services.
Paul is known for his expert knowledge, practical insight and strong client‑focused approach, providing clear guidance and strategic support to help clients meet their statutory and governance obligations with confidence.
Outside of work, Paul is an avid golfer and a loyal Bristol City supporter.

Adrian Smart

Adrian Smart
Adrian brings nearly 30 years’ experience in corporate law and plays a senior role in ensuring FCLS’s systems and processes remain compliant, efficient and running smoothly.
He works closely with teams across the business to support operational excellence, consistency and continual improvement.
Known for his practical approach and deep technical understanding, Adrian helps ensure that processes and workflows operate effectively in support of the firm’s wider objectives.
Outside of work, Adrian enjoys running middle‑distance events and spending time on the golf course.

Dawn Kelly

Dawn Kelly
Dawn brings over 20 years’ experience in company secretarial work and holds a CLT Specialist Paralegal qualification with distinction.
She has specialist expertise in share restructures and a wide range of company secretarial matters, providing clients with highly accurate and detail‑focused support.

Pauline Gillard

Pauline Gillard
Pauline is a qualified solicitor and brings extensive knowledge of Companies Act compliance and transactional work across both charitable and trading organisations. She provides expert guidance on complex corporate matters and is highly experienced in supporting best practice governance and compliance.
Pauline is also a skilled author of internal briefings and checklists, helping to ensure technical information is communicated clearly and effectively across the business.

Lloyd Gibbs

Lloyd Gibbs
Lloyd has been with FCLS since 2005 and manages the Change of Name services, as well as National and International Company Searches. He also oversees Notarisation and Apostille services, supporting clients with a wide range of specialist corporate requirements.

Chloe Hancock

Chloe Hancock
Chloe is the Corporate Law Manager at First Corporate Law Services and leads the Company Secretarial team. She plays a key role in overseeing the delivery of company secretarial services, supporting clients with governance and compliance requirements, and helping to ensure the team provides a high‑quality and consistent service.
Chloe combines strong academic credentials, including a law degree and a Master’s in Business and Law, with over six years of governance and company secretarial experience. She joined First Corporate in 2020 to support the growth and development of the practice and continues to play an integral part in its ongoing success.

Laura Tozer

Laura Tozer
Laura is Head of Business Operations and Growth, where she plays a key role in shaping the business’ commercial strategy and supporting its continued growth. Her responsibilities include strengthening client relationships, driving marketing and business development and ensuring a joined up approach to client engagement.
Laura brings extensive experience from the recruitment sector, where she partnered closely with organisations to understand strategic objectives, build long‑term relationships, and deliver tailored support. She now applies this experience at First Corporate, alongside supporting elements of the company’s in‑house recruitment and HR activity.
Outside of work, Laura enjoys spending time with family and friends and loves getting outdoors, particularly walking in the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean.

Helen Joyce

Helen Joyce
Helen has been with FCLS since 1996 and is the longest‑serving member of the team.
She oversees credit control, bringing a wealth of experience, reliability, and a personal approach to her work, and plays a key role in supporting the smooth financial operation of the business.

Ben Blackmore

Ben Blackmore
Ben joined FCLS in 2021, gaining experience in both the Company Formations and Company Secretarial teams, where he developed strong knowledge of company set‑ups and ongoing compliance.
More recently, Ben has transitioned into the role of Executive Assistant, where he provides dedicated support to the directors.
In this position, he assists with day‑to‑day operational matters, coordination, and administrative support, helping to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the business.
Outside of the office, Ben is a keen Bristol City supporter and enjoys playing golf.

Hayley Holloway

Hayley Holloway
Hayley joined FCLS in 2021 and brings over 30 years’ experience to the business.She leads the Company Formations team, where she is known for her passion, encouragement, and commitment to excellence.
Hayley supports her team across all areas of their work, with a strong focus on compliance, innovation and continuous learning.
Outside of work, Hayley enjoys spinning, theatre trips, wine tasting, and growing her wine collection.

Katharine Mulready

Katharine Mulready
Katharine works within the Company Formations team and has built a long career in administration, bringing a strong attention to detail and a commitment to getting things right. She plays an important role in supporting the accurate and efficient delivery of formation services for clients.
Outside of work, Katharine enjoys going to the theatre, reading, and the occasional run.

Ellis Hillyard

Ellis Hillyard
Ellis joined FCLS in 2025, having previously worked in an administrative role at a well‑established law firm, where she developed a strong foundation in legal processes, organisation, and client support. She is now a member of the Company Formations team, helping clients through the process of setting up their companies and ensuring each stage is handled smoothly and efficiently.
In her role, Ellis supports the delivery of formation services by working closely with colleagues and clients, applying a careful and proactive approach to ensure a positive client experience from start to finish.
Outside of work, Ellis enjoys taking long walks, going on camping trips, and watching her favourite team, Liverpool FC.

Franchesca Dhanjal

Franchesca Dhanjal
Fran joined FCLS in 2019 and specialises in supporting clients through the company formation process.
She works closely with clients to guide them through each stage with clarity and efficiency, ensuring every detail is handled accurately from the outset. Her careful and methodical approach helps give clients confidence as they begin building their businesses.
Outside of work, Fran enjoys baking, spending time with her animals, and travelling.

Elana Feay

Elana Feay
Elana joined the team in 2021 and works within the Company Formations team.
In her role, she supported clients through a range of administrative tasks and carried out due diligence checks, helping to ensure a smooth and efficient service throughout the onboarding process.
Outside of work, Elana enjoys spending her weekends in the countryside with her horses and her dog, Kali.

Lucy Guard

Lucy Guard
Lucy joined FCLS in 2024, initially starting as a Corporate Law Assistant where she supported the team with a range of administrative tasks.
She has since moved into the Company Formations team, continuing to support clients through the company set‑up process and contributing to the smooth delivery of formation services.
Outside of work, Lucy enjoys reading, walking, and travelling to new places.

Evie Walker

Evie Walker
Evie is part of our Company Formations team, where she supports clients with setting up new businesses.
After completing her A-levels, she began her career as a Company Formations Advisor and has quickly developed her knowledge by learning from the experienced team around her.
Evie has enjoyed building her understanding of both the formation process and the wider services we offer to clients.
Outside of work, Evie enjoys photography, running and going to the gym.

Georgia Blackmore

Georgia Blackmore
Georgia joined FCLS in 2024 to manage the Support Team. Working closely with colleagues across the business, she oversees a wide range of administrative and support functions, helping to ensure the smooth and effective day‑to‑day operation of the firm.
Her role plays a key part in supporting both internal teams and client service delivery.
Outside of work, Georgia enjoys watching Formula 1 and football, and spending time with her family, friends, and her four dogs.

Freya Bashford

Freya Bashford
Freya works within the Corporate Law team having joined First Corporate in 2025. Her role includes conducting identity verification checks in line with regulatory requirements, handling client communications and liaising with clients to help ensure a smooth and efficient service.
Freya is continuing to develop her skills and knowledge through training with the support team, including becoming familiar with Companies House filings.
Before joining First Corporate, Freya spent two years living in Australia and has a strong interest in travel. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling and spending time on creative pursuits such as pottery.

Elliott Taylor

Elliott Taylor
Elliot works within the Corporate Law Support team supporting day‑to‑day client and team activities. His role includes identity verification, supporting new client onboarding and assisting with company formations and post‑incorporation work.
Before joining First Corporate, Elliot held several part‑time roles alongside studying business at college, where he was introduced to corporate law and developed an interest in the area. Recognising the overlap between business studies and corporate law, Elliot saw this as a strong career path and was keen to develop his skills and experience from an early stage.
Outside of work, Elliot enjoys watching football and playing padel in his spare time.

Tayla Crook

Tayla Crook
Tayla works within the Corporate Law Support team, supporting day‑to‑day operations through identity verification checks, accounting support tasks and the effective management of email correspondence to ensure a smooth and accurate service for clients.
Before joining First Corporate, Tayla gained extensive administrative experience, developing strong organisational skills and a high level of attention to detail across a range of support functions.
Outside of work, Tayla enjoys staying active and can often be found playing netball, going to the gym or spending time with family and friends.

Harry Olive

Harry Olive
Harry joined FCLS in 2024 as part of the Support Team, where he assists across all departments and undertakes a wide range of administrative tasks to help keep the business running smoothly. His role supports both clients and colleagues, contributing to the efficient day‑to‑day operation of the firm.
Before joining FCLS, Harry completed his A Levels and spent time travelling, allowing him to gain new experiences before starting his career.
Outside of work, Harry enjoys football and is a keen Bristol City supporter. He also enjoys exploring new cities and countries and has a strong interest in good food.

Ash Hardidge

Ash Hardidge
Ash joined FCLS in 2024 after graduating with a first‑class degree from Cardiff Metropolitan University.
He works within the Support Team, assisting across all departments and handling a variety of administrative and support tasks to help ensure the smooth day‑to‑day running of the business.
Outside of work, Ash is a keen golfer with a 4.7 handicap and a dedicated Bristol Rovers supporter.

Ella Cooper

Ella Cooper
Ella joined the Technical Team in 2023 and is now the Manager of the team, overseeing its work and supporting its continued growth and development. In her role, she ensures the accurate delivery of specialist legal advice and services to clients, including share restructures, while maintaining high technical and service standards across the team.
Ella is known for her positive, professional approach and for building strong working relationships with both clients and colleagues.
Outside of the office, Ella enjoys spending time with her two dogs and going on long walks.

Sarah Burke

Sarah Burke
Sarah originally joined FCLS in 2000 as a Corporate Law Advisor. After taking a five‑year hiatus to focus on her family, she has since returned to the business and recently joined the Technical Team. In her current role, she supports clients with specialist matters, including company share restructures, drawing on her strong background in corporate law and company secretarial work.
Sarah brings a wealth of experience and a practical, client‑focused approach to the team and enjoys developing her skills within this technical area.
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys visiting her caravan in West Wales with her two children and energetic cocker spaniel, exploring the hidden gems of Pembrokeshire along the coastal path.

Ayanna Deans

Ayanna Deans
Ayanna joined the Technical Team in 2024 after returning to the UK from her hometown of Alicante, Spain. She holds a first‑class law degree and supports clients with a range of technical company secretarial matters, including company share restructures.
In her role, she works closely with colleagues and clients, providing clear, practical guidance and is always happy to assist with queries.
Alongside her role at FCLS, Ayanna is training to become a qualified solicitor, continuing to develop her legal knowledge and professional experience.
Outside of work, Ayanna enjoys attending theatre shows and going on fun holidays.

Ethan Blake

Ethan Blake
Ethan is a Corporate Law Consultant within the Technical Team. He joined FCLS this year, bringing with him experience gained as a Practice Executive at a solicitor’s firm, where he developed hands‑on expertise in procurement and transactional support.
In his role, Ethan provides pragmatic, solutions‑focused support to clients on a range of technical matters, including company share restructures, applying a clear and practical approach to complex issues.
Outside of work, Ethan enjoys football and playing golf.

Shelley Burchill

Shelley Burchill
Shelley joined FCLS in June 2025 after spending 36 years working in the banking sector, where she developed extensive experience in financial services before deciding on a change in career path.
She now works within the Company Secretarial team, supporting clients with their company secretarial and compliance requirements.
Outside of work, Shelley enjoys spending time with her family, watching football, shopping, and taking care of her animals.

Frazer David

Frazer David
Frazer joined FCLS in April 2023 and supports businesses in maintaining strong corporate governance and ongoing compliance. With a solutions‑based approach, he works to turn complex regulatory and governance matters into clear, practical outcomes, helping clients stay confident and focused on their wider business goals.
Through his role, Frazer focuses on providing reliable, well‑considered support, ensuring that details are managed accurately and efficiently while delivering a positive client experience.
Outside of work, Frazer enjoys staying active and can often be found on the golf course, football pitch, or padel court.

Sam Evans

Sam Evans
Sam joined FCLS in March 2024 as part of the Company Secretarial team, supporting clients with statutory compliance and day‑to‑day company secretarial matters. He works closely with colleagues and clients to help ensure governance requirements are managed accurately and efficiently.
Outside of work, Sam is a keen golfer and was part of the winning team at the first annual FCLS golf day, alongside Steve.

Gabriella Pring

Gabriella Pring
Gabby joined FCLS at the start of 2024 and works within the Company Secretarial team.
She supports clients with their company secretarial requirements, helping to keep statutory records in order while ensuring an effective, approachable and friendly service.
Outside of work, Gabby enjoys attending concerts and spending time with her cats, Moussa and Minnie.

Alex Saul

Alex Saul
Alex works within the Company Secretarial team supporting clients by keeping their statutory records up to date and managing Companies House submissions to ensure ongoing compliance.
Before joining First Corporate, Alex worked within immigration services, assisting with the processing of visa applications and developing strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a careful, methodical approach to handling sensitive documentation
Outside of work, Alex is a keen footballer and plays five‑a‑side for a couple of teams during the week. Alex is also an avid hiker and has completed multi‑day treks in countries including Georgia and Kyrgyzstan.

Poppy Moodie

Poppy Moodie
Poppy joined FCLS in 2024 after graduating with a first‑class degree from Cardiff University. She initially joined the business as an administrative temporary team member before returning, following a period of travelling, as a full‑time member of the Company Secretarial team.
In her role, Poppy supports clients with company secretarial matters, helping to ensure statutory requirements are managed accurately and efficiently.
Outside of work, Poppy enjoys travelling, attending live music events, and working on creative craft projects.

Calum Dunn

Calum Dunn
Callum joined FCLS full time in 2026 after working with the company one day a week for the past two years alongside his studies. During this time, he attended college where he studied Sports and Coaching Development, achieving three A levels through the Bristol City Robins Foundation.
Now part of the Company Secretarial Outsourcing team, Callum supports clients with their company secretarial requirements, bringing a strong work ethic and willingness to learn.
Outside of work, Callum is an avid golfer and a member of Tall Pines Golf Club.

Lillian Baryoh

Lillian Baryoh
Lillian works within the Company Secretarial team, supporting clients by maintaining statutory records and assisting with company secretarial and regulatory obligations to ensure ongoing compliance.
She joined First Corporate after completing her Master’s degree at the University of Bristol, initially joining the team on a temporary basis.
Through her role, Lillian works closely with clients and the wider team, applying a careful and organised approach to supporting statutory compliance and day‑to‑day company secretarial matters.
Outside of work, Lillian enjoys attending live music events and spending time hiking.

Jessica Gill

Jessica Gill
Jess works within the Company Secretarial team as a Company Secretarial Advisor, having joined in 2024 following her graduation from the University of Worcester.
She supports clients with company secretarial and compliance matters, helping to ensure statutory requirements are met efficiently and accurately.
Outside of the office, Jess enjoys creative beauty interests, working out, and spending time with her dogs.

Teresa McPherson

Teresa McPherson
Teresa works within the Company Secretarial team bringing approximately 25 years’ experience gained across accountancy practices and company secretarial services. Throughout her career, she has supported clients with a wide range of company secretarial and compliance matters, developing a strong understanding of statutory requirements and best practice.
Teresa’s depth of experience allows her to provide practical, reliable support to clients and the wider team, ensuring company records and filings are managed accurately and efficiently.
Outside of the office, Teresa has recently moved into a doer‑upper with her partner and spends much of her spare time decorating and gardening. She also enjoys keeping fit, particularly Pilates.

Hannah Grant

Hannah Grant
Hannah joined FCLS in July 2025 after nearly 10 years in the company secretarial department of an accountancy firm.
During this time, she gained extensive experience supporting clients with statutory compliance, Companies House filings and the maintenance of company records.
At FCLS, Hannah supports clients with ongoing company secretarial and governance matters, taking a careful, organised, and client‑focused approach.
Outside of work, Hannah enjoys going to the gym, travelling to different cities, and spending time with her cat, Bella.

Nikki Duff

Nikki Duff
Nikki is a member of the Company Secretarial team and has been with the First Corporate for nearly a year.
She supports clients with their ongoing company secretarial and compliance requirements, bringing a reliable, detail focused approach to her role and contributing positively to the wider team.
Outside of work, Nikki enjoys keeping active through working out, taking her dog on long walks, travelling and spending time socialising with friends.

Molly Lindley

Molly Lindley
Molly joined FCLS in early 2026 and works within the Company Secretarial team. She plays a key role in supporting clients with their company secretarial needs, ensuring everything runs smoothly and remains fully compliant.
Prior to joining FCLS, Molly studied Acting before moving into an Office Administrator role, where she built valuable organisational and administrative experience.
In her spare time, Molly enjoys reading and spending quality time with friends.

Clare Stinchcomb

Clare Stinchcomb
Bio coming soon

Wesley

Wesley
FCLS’s friendly office mascot—always on hand to brighten the day and bring a smile to the team!

