An Ulverston firm has been named Firm of the Year at the British Accountancy Awards. 

JF Hornby & Co collected the award last Tuesday at a black tie dinner held at the Brewery in London. 

The firm had been shortlisted in the northern section of the Independent Firm of the Year category, and after winning that, it was automatically entered with the other regional winners for the national award. 

The judges said Hornby’s had created a unique approach to accountancy and their work in tax deserved special recognition. 

They also commented their involvement with good causes made them a vital part of the local community. 

The ceremony was hosted by comedian Rufus Hound. Managing director Paul Hornby said: “It was an incredible evening at the British Accountancy Awards and being crowned national firm of the year is the pinnacle of my career. 

"The judges acknowledged it just wasn’t about the numbers for us but being responsive and supportive to the wider community and good causes.

" After we were crowned champions social media went crazy and we received hundreds of comments, re-tweets and likes from many well-wishers. It was a very humbling experience as the accolade is all down to the support of our clients over the years." 

Mr Hornby dedicated the win to the incredible team he worked with, adding: “This award is their award for the hard work and dedication they demonstrate every day. 

“At Hornby’s we are one big happy family and this shines through to the clients we deal with.” 

The firm is now busy planning for an exciting 2016 which includes the creation of an Accountancy Academy. 

Director Tom Southward is working with schools and colleges in the area getting ready for the 2016/16 academic year. 

He added: “By retaining outstanding skills in this area we can offer an alternative to university where we can provide a vocational type of training but which gives a world renowned professional qualification.