More than 70 Shropshire employers took the opportunity to find out more about radical changes in equality law from a local firm of solicitors.

The Alpha Team at Martin-Kaye LLP Solicitors, in Euston Way, organised two seminars to lift the lid on the dramatic shake-up created by the Equality Act 2010 which has just been introduced.

And the employers who attended the free sessions were extremely impressed by the advice they received.

John Mehtam, Employment Law Specialist for the law firm, said the new Act had brought the most significant changes in the sector for 50 years.

"We wanted to help local employers understand the implications of the changes to the equality rules as failing to comply could leave them facing a host of tribunal claims and paying out a fortune in compensation.

"We were very pleased with the response to our seminars, and many delegates said they would now be reviewing their existing policies as a result of what they had learned.

"They also said that although the law was a daunting challenge, they felt better prepared to handle the changes it had brought."

The Alpha Team were joined by leading barrister Sophie Garner, from St Phillips Chambers, for both presentations, who explained to employers what their new responsibilities are and how they could avoid expensive employment tribunal claims.

The new Act includes a major overhaul of the equality rules covering discrimination, behaviour, harassment and interview techniques.

Martin-Kaye LLP Solicitors launched its Alpha Team to support local businesses by offering 24-hour practical employment law and HR advice from qualified lawyers from its Commercial Department.

For more information on Martin-Kaye Solicitors visit their website here: www.martinkaye.co.uk