Garbutt & Elliott, the York based chartered accountancy and business adviser firm has been officially recognised for the quality of its service to customers.

The firm has become one of the first independent accountants in the country to receive the Customer First accreditation accolade.

Customer First, organised by Customer First UK and endorsed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), aims to increase the quality, coherence and consistency in service delivery to businesses.

David Dickson, managing director of Garbutt & Elliott, said: "We are committed to keeping levels of client service at the highest possible level and we are delighted to have received this prestigious award.."

Garbutt & Elliott took part in the accreditation process earlier this year.

It involved an intensive interview and scrutiny process to study its client relationships, market awareness and how staff were trained and motivated.

Mr Dickson said: "As one of only four accountancy firms in the UK to achieve Customer First Accreditation, it is important that we continue to maintain our standards so that our clients receive the best possible service."

Updated: 11:30 Thursday, August 25, 2005