Court colleagues pay tribute to death-blaze barrister

TRIBUTES have been paid at Leeds and Bradford crown courts to a former barrister who died in a fire at his home.

By The Newsroom

Published 5th Feb 2010, 22:33 BST

Updated 5th Feb 2010, 22:33 BST

Gerald Lumley, 60, was described as a popular and skilled advocate, who was much in demand when he practised criminal and civil law from chambers in Leeds.

David Hatton QC told a packed Leeds courtroom yesterday Mr Lumley was "the finest barrister of his generation".

"He was the most genuine, genial, gifted, gregarious and generous man you are ever likely to meet."

Judge Jennifer Kershaw QC said his many friends on the North Eastern Circuit would remember him with great affection, admiration and respect.

Police have said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the fire at Mr Lumley's home in Burley, Leeds.