THE local health authority can certainly count on Andrew Harrison.

Not only has the programme director of Bury Primary Care Trust (PCT) passed his final examinations of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance Accountants (CIPFA), but has become the first ever recipient of the Ian Wood Award.

The accolade was presented by CIPFA North West and North Wales branch to the student achieving the highest mark in the final exams case study.

Mr Harrison also learnt this week that he has been accepted as a full member of the Institute of Public Finance Accountants.

Mr Stephen Mills, director of finance and commissioning for Bury PCT said: "Three years of hard work and determination have paid off for Andrew, and I would like to personally congratulate him. On top of passing his finals and being invited as a member of the institute, Andrew has now been awarded the first Ian Wood award. This is a tremendous achievement."

He added: "I believe Andrew has promised to spend his award money of £50 on his family, for their three years of suffering during his studying!"

"Andrew's experience of working in public services finance will set him in good stead for the future, having such committed staff will benefit both the PCT and the people of Bury, for whom the PCT provide healthcare services. I wish Andrew well for the future."