GIVING more than a good account of themselves!

That's a thriving Bury company which has lifted a majoraward to mark its expertise in information technology (IT).

Staff at accountants Horsfield & Smith are jubilant after scooping a coveted regional prize.

The company, based at Tower House in Walmersley Road, have won the "IT Advisor of the Year" accolade at the prestigious Accountancy Practice of the Year Awards.

Held at Manchester United's Old Trafford ground, the awards ceremony is sponsored by Sage and Datel in association with North West Business Insider.

Horsfield & Smith beat off stiff competition to win the coveted prize.

This award is given for excellence in providing IT solutions to clients.

Partner Nigel Billings said: "Winning came as a big surprise, given the quality of the other contenders.

"It felt a bit like winning an Oscar and I'm so pleased that all the hard work and commitment shown by everyone at Horsfield & Smith has been recognised in this way."

He added: "For some time now, we have really concentrated on trying to excel at advising our clients with computerised account systems.

"Our success at this led to the establishment of a dedicated computer division, now called Hands-On Computer Solutions Ltd."

This company offers a package of services including all Sage business software, fixed price network support contracts, Internet and e-mail software supplies, Sage software training and network provisions.

The change of name for Horsfield & Smith's computer services arm climaxed a highly successful 12 months for the company.

For it had achieved a year on year growth in turnover just short of 100 per cent.

Commenting on the award, Nigel Billings continued: "We are very excited about the continuing growth prospects.

"Winning an award like this will give the firm an even greater impetus as it provides tangible evidence of the skills available from the practice."

Horsfield & Smith has itself been trading for 110 years and is widely known within Bury's business community.

Information about the company and its services is available on its web site. Log on to www.ithas2b.com.