A CHARTERED accountancy firm is celebrating after appointing a talented new tax partner.

Phil Waller was recently hired by Ballard Dale Syree Watson, which is based in Hampton Lovett, near Droitwich.

Mr Waller spent the past 19 years as tax partner at international top 10 accountancy firm Mazars in Birmingham before joining Ballards.

Bill Ballard, managing partner, said: "It is great that we are able to attract top talent out of Birmingham to work in Worcestershire. I think it goes to show the level of expertise that the region now has to offer."

Mr Waller will work in Ballard Dale Syree Watson’s tax department which has recently been rebranded as 'Top Flight Tax'.

Steven Jones, business development director, said: "The renaming of our tax department reflects the quality of the staff that are working in it. We’ve worked really hard over the years to build up a team of excellent advisors."

The firm has made a number of hires this year including graduates, qualified accountancy staff and support staff.

Mr Jones added: "It’s very positive to be able to see ourselves, our clients and other local businesses grow.

"Obviously, we are heading for a period of change but hopefully this will continue with whatever happens with the pending election and post-Brexit."