In recognition of their outstanding pro bono achievements, the in-house legal team at Drax Power Limited (”Drax”) has won the Pro Bono Award at the International Law Office (”ILO”) European Counsel Awards 2010.

Members of the Drax team contribute to the Company’s pro bono efforts in a range of ways, including the Aimhigher Partnerships programme for primary schools, in which professionals speak to year 6 students to help raise career aspirations and broaden horizons. The team also partners up with the external law firms it works with to deliver pro bono initiatives.

Senior Legal Counsel, Kavita Singh, was singled out by leading individuals in the legal profession for her commitment to providing free advice to charities and individuals who would not otherwise have the means to access legal services.

In addition to undertaking her job in the Legal Department at Drax, Kavita has taken up a number of cases on a voluntary basis, advising families of children with multiple and complex disabilities and special needs, including Cerebral Palsy and Autism.

Her work has allowed a number of children with both physical and learning disabilities to access the special educational provision, schooling, therapy and services required to meet their needs.

Commenting on winning the award, Kavita said:

“I am very proud of what the team at Drax has achieved over the last year and delighted that our efforts have been recognised.

“As a small and busy team finding the time for voluntary work isn’t always easy, but we are fortunate that Drax encourages us to use our time and skills not just for the benefit of the company, but for the benefit of the wider community.

“We aim to build on this success and encourage more of the same.”.

The ILO conducted an in-depth analysis of in-house lawyers and legal departments worldwide, receiving over 3,000 individual nominations making the award a mark of respect from lawyers across the international legal community.

For more information, please contact:

Melanie Wedgbury/Rachael Hudson
Drax Power 01757 618381

Lisa McGauley/Richard Harrison
Imagen PR 01943 468778

-ENDS-

Notes to editors:

1. Drax Power Limited is the owner of Drax Power Station, the largest, cleanest and most efficient coal fired power station in the UK. The output capacity from the station’s six generators is 4,000MW. At current output levels it supplies some 7% of the UK’s electricity needs.
2. The International Law Office (”ILO”) European Counsel Awards 2010 are held in association with the Association of Corporate Counsel (”ACC”). Further information is available from: http://www.europeancounselawards.com/2010/photos/Thumbnails.aspx?type=Winners&company=Pro+Bono

Left to right: Siobhan Hagerty - Cross, Sharon Atkinson, Catriona Hatton, Hogan and Hartson LLP, Claire Sedgwick and Laura Kiwelu