Shepton Mallet law firm tops Will Aid donations

By Laura Linham 17th Jul 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 5 minutes ago

A Shepton Mallet-based law firm has been named the highest donating Will Aid firm in the South West after raising £15,065 through the annual charity Will-writing campaign. Lyons Bowe Solicitors raised the money by writing basic Wills in return for upfront donations to Will Aid.

The firm has supported Will Aid since 2017 and has now raised a total of £32,760 through the campaign. Instead of charging its usual fees for basic Wills, the team invited clients to donate to Will Aid, with the money going to the campaign's partner charities.

Those charities support a range of causes in the UK and overseas, including humanitarian aid, work with vulnerable children, support for older people and help for people facing homelessness. Will Aid's partner charities are Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, Crisis, NSPCC, SCIAF, Shelter and Trócaire.

Darrell Collins, Director of Private Clients at Lyons Bowe Solicitors, said: "Will Aid is a fantastic initiative, and we're proud to have played our part once again this year. It's incredibly rewarding to help people put their affairs in order while also raising funds for such important causes.

"This achievement reflects a real team effort, and to be recognised as the highest donating firm in the South West makes it even more special. We know the funds raised will go on to make a meaningful difference to people's lives both here in the UK and globally."

Will Aid has raised more than £26 million in donations since it launched in 1988. The campaign says millions more have also been pledged in charitable legacies through the generosity of participating solicitors.

Lauren Poole, Chair of Will Aid, said: "Congratulations to everyone at Lyons Bowe on raising such a fantastic amount. Their continued support is invaluable, and it's inspiring to see firms across the UK making such a positive impact through Will Aid — helping clients while supporting our partner charities."

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid's Campaign Director, added: "Each year, we're reminded of the vital role solicitors play in making Will Aid a success. The commitment shown by firms like Lyons Bowe is truly exceptional — supporting their local communities while raising essential funds for charities that need it more than ever.

"To achieve the highest total in their region is a fantastic accomplishment and a testament to the team's dedication and generosity."

Will Aid runs every November and offers people the chance to have a professionally written Will in exchange for a donation. The suggested donation is £120 for a basic single Will and £200 for a pair of mirror Wills, with people able to sign up online to be told when the list of solicitors goes live for the 2026 campaign.