Middle Temple pays tribute to Ian Forrester and Eleanor Sharpston
Middle Temple paid tribute to two senior members who had served in the EU courts by commissioning a painting of them. It is a custom that the inns of court have been following for centuries. This double-portrait is by Fiona Graham-Mackay.
At a brief ceremony on Tuesday, 25/11/25, a double-portrait of two Middle Temple Benchers who played a major role in the EU court system before Brexit has been unveiled at Middle Temple.
Dame Eleanor Sharpston DCMG KC served as an advocate general at the European Court of Justice for almost 15 years and Ian Forrester KC is a former judge of the EU’s General Court.
Master Treasurer, The Rt Hon Lady Justice Thirlwall DBE made brief remarks before the painting by Fiona Graham- Mackay was unveiled.
Ian Forrester, the former president of the AJFB/FBLS is still one of its most active members, sitting at the Scottish Committee and at the board of directors, organising many events for the society, including the traditionnal dinner at the Athenaeum Club, following the annual reception of the Society, at the House of Lords, but also seminars and webinars, such as the "fireside chats" webinar series with distinguished judges and senior figures. He is also involved in the several trial re-enactments organised in France (l'Affaire Caillaux, l'Affaire Zola/Dreyfus).