Ince, as one of shipping’s oldest law firms, has always been known for the length of service and loyalty of its partners.

Many have spent most of their careers at the firm, in contrast to the job-hopping that characterises most careers in the legal field.

Although things have changed over recent years, there is perhaps no better example of an Ince “lifer” — who stayed with the firm from the day he joined until retirement approached — than former partner Paul Herring.