THE financial planning division of a Yorkshire wide accountancy firm has merged with a Cleckheaton-based counterpart.

Following a period of organic growth, BHP Financial Planning, part of BHP Chartered Accountants, which has an office in Micklegate, has merged Chartford Financial Management.

Headed up by managing director Joy Clegg, BHP Financial Planning employs a team of independent financial advisors across Yorkshire who together specialise in all aspects of personal financial planning, employee engagement and corporate financial planning.

Ms Clegg said: "This merger follows a period of great performance by BHP Financial Planning. In May this year we successfully met all of the objectives in our five year business plan a year early.

"The personal finance market is evolving quickly due to an expanding and ageing population, which means that financial security is a priority for more people than ever before.

"Completing this merger with Chartford Financial Management strengthens our position in the market and expands our geographical catchment area into Bradford and my hometown of Cleckheaton. It’s great to have the opportunity to work in the town where I grew up.

"Through working closely with our colleagues at BHP Chartered Accountants we can also offer specialist tax and trusts and estates advice so that clients can access all of the financial support they need through one contact point."

Maurice Docwra, senior financial planner who joins from Chartford Financial Management, said: "The merger really adds depth to our service offering and we’re delighted to be joining BHP Financial Planning as the team continues to excel."