In October, Biscoes saw a career start and the end of an era

John Cobbett was based at Biscoes’ North End office and served the community for over 60 years with his extensive knowledge and experience covering commercial, probate and trust matters and in the twilight of his career he acted solely as an executor and trustee and as a notary public.

This much-loved notary was a senior partner of King & Franckeiss in Portsmouth, that merged with Biscoes in 2004, and became Biscoes King & Franckeiss. He qualified in 1957 and officially retired from the firm on October 30.

Over the past few years Cobbett had worked part-time within the Biscoes group and recommended the law-graduate grandson of a family friend, Luke Brown, for work experience at the firm.

Biscoes was impressed with Brown’s enthusiasm and positive approach to his work, so offered him a training contract in 2018.

Brown, who enjoys going to the gym, watching boxing and travelling, studied part-time for his LPC, at the University of Portsmouth, alongside his training contract in the residential conveyancing department based in the North End Office. There he assisted with buying and selling of freehold and leasehold property, re-mortgages and transfers of equity.

He also gained experience in lease extensions whether private or statutory, right to manage and lease enfranchisement.

Sadly, due to Covid-19, Cobbett’s send-off was more limited than the firm would have liked, but the main office staff lined the car park for his final departure from the office and clapped and waved him off.

After 63 years in law, John Cobbett has retired to enjoy his hobbies which include photography, digital imaging, gardening, DIY and sound reproduction.

Luke Brown

biscoes-law.co.uk