The Diary has noticed an intriguing trend of late – while UK law firms are merrily forcing their partners to retire at a younger and younger age, they are just as eagerly signing up octogenarians on the Continent.

Regular readers may remember the star appearance of 80-year-old Chiomenti senior partner Michele Carpinelli at the recent party in London to celebrate the firm’s alliance with US firm Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom.