Inspiring 'take a pause' speech and all the glamour of Law Society of Scotland's Mansfield Traquair gala dinner captured in more than 100 photos

The great and the good of the Scottish legal profession gathered in Edinburgh's Mansfield Traquair for a black tie gala dinner marked by an inspiring speech from Barbara Mills KC and a farewell to President Patricia Thom.

Hosted in one of Edinburgh's most beautiful venues, figures from across Scotland gathered to hear of the success of the Society, of the wider legal sector, and of the inspiring career of Barbara Mills KC — British barrister, family law specialist and first black woman elected Chair of the Bar Council.

She spoke to the importance of wellbeing in the sector, particular in practices such as her own where the personal and emotional toll can be pronouced.

Urging the hundreds of gathered guests to reframe the job not as one to proudly suffer and be stressed for, but one which requires practitioners to "take a pause" and prioritise themselves from time to time.

She cited the heroism of pilots Chesley 'Sulley' Sullenberger and Jeffrey Skiles and their careful thought before acting when their US Airways Flight 1549 lost its engines over New York. The subsequent water landing, dubbed the Miracle on the Hudson, saved all 155 people on board.

Speeches also came from outgoing Society President Patricia Thom, who reiterated the importance of the rule of law, and from incoming President Serena Sutherland.

Serena, who owns an Orkney firm, said she will champion solicitors from across Scotland including rural areas and small towns.

Guests were joined by a photographer throughout the night to capture the speeches, celebrations and dinner discussion.

Check out the full gallery below