KENDAL-based chartered accountants Lonsdale & Partners has doubled in size after moving into new offices at the town's Murley Moss Business Village.

The firm has a team of 15 accountancy and taxation specialists in Kendal, headed by two of the partners, Michael Proudfoot and Ian MacGregor.

Mr Proudfoot said: "Nowadays, business owners are expecting more and more from their accountant.

At Lonsdale & Partners, we help our clients through the provision of all-round business and financial advice tailored to meet their individual needs.

We want to share our expertise and show our clients how to succeed - not just do their accounts."

The seven partner practice, which also has offices in Kirkby Lonsdale and Lancaster, marked its 15th anniversary earlier this year and has seen consistent growth in business.

Lonsdale & Partners achieved Investor in People status last year for the second time, and managing partner Chris Oddie said the firm had a commitment to training.

"We believe that staff are one of a business's most important assets and as part of our ongoing development, we are in the process of creating a dedicated training suite in our Lancaster office.

Once completed, this resource will also be available to our clients, together with the support of our IT, bookkeeping and Sage trainers," he said.