John Crabtree, the senior partner of Wragge & Co, is to step down on 2 April 2003 after 10 years at the head of the Midlands giant.

Crabtree, credited as one of the UK’s most successful law firm leaders, informed the firm’s partners of his decision in September. Crabtree said he had already served longer as senior partner than he had initially planned. “I originally only intended serving five years as senior partner. [By the time I leave] I will have done over 10,” he said.