A CHESTER finance company is celebrating after being given a national award.

Financial planners Innes Reid who are based on Hoole Road, were granted ‘chartered financial planner’ status by The Chartered Insurance Company.

To receive the exclusive chartered status, companies must demonstrate a commitment to developing and maintaining the knowledge and capability of their customers.

The award is seen as the gold standard of what is generally accepted as an emerging new profession.

Only 2% of the 29,000 UK firms that the Financial Services Authority currently regulates have received the award.

Innes Reid’s managing director, Mark Reidford, said the award was a ‘landmark’ for the company.

“We have always prided ourselves on our thoroughly professional approach, so to have received such prestigious external recognition in this way is very gratifying,” he added.

“As a firm we believe that chartered status demonstrates the very clear commitment we have to our clients.

“Our new status will continue to help us attract and retain the most talented industry professionals.”