A HEXHAM-based accountancy firm has continued to grow with the recruitment of a new member of the team.

Armstrong Watson LLP, Accountants, Business and Financial Advisers, has welcomed Arlene Atkinson in the role of audit and assurance director.

Arlene trained as a chartered accountant with Moore Stephens in Belfast before moving to Newcastle in 2006 and spending 12 years working for big four accountancy firm KPMG.

She has experience of working with a wide range of sectors, including international groups, energy and utilities, ports, owner- managed businesses, manufacturing, wholesale, health, education institutions, housing associations and other not for profit organisations.

She said: “I was keen to join Armstrong Watson as they are a very ambitious firm, with strong growth plans and a unique offering, targeting owner-managed family businesses, but with all the skills that you’d expect of the big four.

“I am looking forward to the opportunity to use the breadth and depth of my knowledge and experience to assist in the growth of the audit and assurance practice and the wider Armstrong Watson positioning in Hexham and across the North.”

Hexham lead partner Andrew Robinson added: “From the first meeting with Arlene it was clear her passion and enthusiasm would be a real asset to Armstrong Watson, bringing with her a wealth of ideas and experience which will definitely be beneficial to our team and clients.”