One of Kent's top barristers, Oliver Saxby is to become a Queen's Counsel, it has been confirmed.

The 43-year-old criminal advocate, who lives near Ashford, was called to the bar 20 years ago and was in chambers in Canterbury for a while – before moving to Six Pump Court in London.

Among the high profile cases in which he has appeared include hairdresser Ivan Esack, who was convicted of murdering his wife, and Stephen Farrow, the man arrested in Folkestone after murdering a teacher and a vicar in the West Country.

He discovered his appointment by email, which arrived as he was preparing his defence in a case at Canterbury Crown Court.

Mr Saxby said: "It was a bit nerve-wracking waiting for the letter to arrive but when it did it was really exciting. It is a great privilege."

Three courts away, Recorder Bobbie Cheema – who is sitting as a judge for the week – was told she is also to "take silk" – the legal term for becoming a QC.

Mr Saxby – described by legal experts as an "amenable barrister who upholds the highest traditions of the bar" – has also appeared for the prosecution in the case of Ralph Latchana, the 61-year-old pub landlord from Wincheap who admitted attempted murder and will be sentenced next month.

The newly appointed QC, who was educated at Eton and Southampton University, is married to Becky, a teacher at the Spring Grove School in Wye. The couple have one daughter.

He is also a keen sportsman, playing golf, cricket and football and the family are huge fans of Premiership leaders, Manchester United.