Brantwood joins elite group.

A FIRM of independent financial advisers in Huddersfield has been admitted to an elite group.

Brantwood Financial Planning, based at Market Street in the town centre, is one of only 13 firms in Yorkshire and Humber - and the only one with a Huddersfield postcode - to achieve Corporate Chartered status with industry body the Chartered Insurance Institute.

The scheme was introdus ced in 2007 by the CII to provide a "gold standard" for financial planners and is only awarded to organisations meeting rigorous criteria relating to standards, capability and conduct.

Brantwood Financial Planning is headed by Paul Dickinson, 43, and Christopher Brown, 44, who have rebranded the business, which formerly traded as Martyn Smith & Co.

That business was founded in 1982 by Martyn Smith, who set up as a sole trader with offices in High Street. He was joined by Mr Dickinson in June, 2000, and by Mr Brown in December, 2004. The firm became incorporated in April, 2006, when the three became directors.

Mr Smith retired in October last year, since when Mr Dickinson and Mr Brown have been managing the transition of clients and working on the rebranding.

Together, Mr Dickinson and Mr Brown have more than 50 years experience in financial planning. Mr Dickinson is a chartered financial planner while Mr Brown has advanced qualifications in the sector.

CAPTION(S):

BRAND IMAGE: Christopher Brown (left) and Paul Dickinson, directors of Brantwood Financial Planning