North Wales-based Celtic Financial Planning has acquired the financial advisory arm of Widnes-based Halton Insurance Services.

The move adds £20m of funds and about 100 clients to Celtic which plans to expand its business

In the past three years Celtic has increased staff numbers from three to nine.

The firm offers independent advice to client on pensions, investment, insurance and mortgages.

Celtic is led by directors Rob Lewis and Nigel Dale from offices in Mold and serves clients across the UK, from London to Scotland.

Mr Lewis, who also works with his wife Ella, said his company aims for a “family” approach at the business.

He said: “We always wanted to do things differently, to be a breath of fresh air in this industry with a more digital, technological approach. We have done that, but also retained our core beliefs, which is in treating clients the way they deserve to be treated, with honesty and transparency, as if they were a part of the family.”

“With the exciting acquisition of what is a reputable, established firm in the North West, we are recruiting for two new members of staff and will look to hopefully add two more later in the year.”

Celtic Financial Planning is also a key sponsor of the Cheshire and North Wales Law Society and during the first Coronavirus lockdown purchased a 3D printer and began manufacturing and distributing PPE (personal protective equipment) to local schools and frontline workers.

Mr Lewis was praised by PFS CEO Keith Richards for his efforts to help local communities during the first lockdown.