Cheltenham law firm partners with Festivals

Cheltenham law firm Willans LLP has strengthened its long-standing relationship with Cheltenham Festivals by becoming its official legal partner. This appointment builds on more than 20 years of collaboration, during which Willans has offered tailored legal advice to support the charity as it has evolved into one of the UK's leading cultural organisations. Cheltenham Festivals hosts world-class events in jazz, literature, music, and science, attracting over 225,000 visitors annually. In addition to its flagship festivals, the charity runs an extensive programme of year-round learning, participation activities, and community outreach, contributing more than £5.2 million to the local economy while making arts and culture accessible to all.

Willans has established itself within the Gloucestershire business community for nearly 80 years, with charity law specialists advising charities and not-for-profit organisations across the country. As the official legal partner, Willans will continue to assist Cheltenham Festivals with legal expertise across various areas, aligning with the charity's ambitious five-year strategy to expand its impact.

Julia Caskey, director of finance at Cheltenham Festivals, commented that "For over 20 years, Willans' professionalism, advice and understanding of our organisation have made them a trusted and valued legal adviser." She added that their support has enabled the charity to "confidently navigate complex challenges, allowing us to focus on delivering world-class cultural events." The partnership marks an exciting new chapter in their relationship.

Willans’ managing partner Bridget Redmond expressed her enthusiasm, stating that “Becoming Cheltenham Festivals’ official legal partner is a natural progression in a relationship built on trust, shared values and a commitment to the local community.” She further noted that as the charity continues to grow, Willans is "delighted to play an even greater role in supporting its ambitions, providing the legal foundations that allow it to deliver world-class festivals and inspire audiences and communities across the county and beyond."

Looking ahead, the Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival is scheduled to run from 9 – 18 October 2026. Willans' partners Laura Stone and Claire Cox will be hosting a free Huddle event titled 'Inheritance Wars: How to Avoid a Family Feud' at the festival. For more details and the full line-up, interested individuals can visit cheltenhamfestivals.org/whats-on.