MP commemorates centenary of Colne accountancy firm

A Colne accountancy firm has celebrated 100 years in business with the help of the local MP.

Hargreaves, Brown & Benson Chartered Accountants (HBB) have been practicing since 1917 and, to recognise the landmark occasion, MP for Pendle, Andrew Stephenson, was on hand to kick off the celebrations.

Mr Stephenson MP was a guest of honour at a ceremony at the firm’s offices where he cut the ribbon on a brand new plinth standing in the lobby, showcasing an original ledger from their first year of trading.

Mr Stephenson MP said: “I’m delighted and honoured to be here to celebrate the centenary of Hargreaves, Brown & Benson; it’s a remarkable achievement for a thriving and exceptional local business.”

When HBB first opened their premises the country had just been subjected to bread rationing during the First World War and you would have thought it would have been an extremely difficult time to begin a new business.

But HBB thrived and now, from their offices in Bond Street, Colne, they employ over 30 members of staff and can boast an enviable client list.

HBB Senior Partner, Steven Wood, said: “It is wonderful to be commemorating 100 years of Hargreaves, Brown & Benson and I would like to thank Andrew for coming here today to help us celebrate by unveiling our brand new centenary stand, which will have pride of place in reception for all to see. It is truly a milestone year for us and we can only hope that the next 100 years can be as successful as the previous.” All the staff present gathered in the boardroom with Mr Stephenson MP and they posed for another picture and tucked into a cake made especially for the occasion and washed it down with a small drop of champagne.

• To read more about HBB's 100 years in business, see Lancashire Business View #75.