ACCOUNTANCY firm TaxAssist Direct is celebrating its first anniversary with the launch of its free accountancy surgery for new start-up businesses.

TaxAssist Direct, based at Bury Business Centre in Kay Street, specialises in accountancy and tax services for self-employed individuals, partnerships and small private companies.

The company has taken on its first employee, Jillian Hulton, a chartered certified accountant with more than 15 years' experience. Management accountant Brian Dormer, who heads the Bury franchise, said: "Many new businesses don't have enough time or resources to focus enough attention on accountancy and tax issues. Many new start-ups don't seek expert advice until they have been trading for some time. Unfortunately, this can lead to financial problems further down the line."

For more information email briandormer@taxassist.co.uk