In Memoriam: Robert Bedford

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Bedford, a former partner of Machins Solicitors LLP, who passed away on Saturday, 15th February.

Robert joined Machins in 1993 from Penman Johnson, a firm based in Watford. During his time with us, he specialised in employment and personal injury law, working on cases that reached all levels of the Court system, including the County Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, and even the House of Lords (now the Supreme Court). His expertise and dedication to justice were widely respected.

A highly accomplished legal professional, Robert was a Fellow and founder member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and a Past President of the Hertfordshire Law Society. He held a Master’s Degree in Law and Employment Relations and had extensive experience handling claims related to unfair dismissal, as well as discrimination cases involving sex, race, disability, and sexual orientation. He was also well-versed in TUPE matters.

Robert was born and raised in Watford, attending Watford Boys’ Grammar School before earning his LLM from Leicester University.

Beyond his professional achievements, Robert was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife Wai Lin and two grown-up children, Kate and Michael.

Robert had a deep passion for sports. A keen cricket spectator, he was a proud member of the MCC. He was also a dedicated football fan, following Tottenham Hotspur and Saracens while maintaining a lifelong soft spot for Watford Football Club. In later years, he took up golf, enjoying the sport both recreationally and socially.

An avid traveller, Robert found joy in exploring new places and had a shared property in the Loire Valley, France.

Robert retired from Machins in April 2019, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, integrity, and camaraderie. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The entire team at Machins extend our heartfelt condolences to Robert’s family during this difficult time.