A SURVEY by Bolton-based chartered accountants Jackson Stephen has revealed that business owners now expect accountants to do more than just prepare their accounts.

The study shows that firms are asking for accountancy firms to provide for a growing variety of needs.

Managing Partner Diane Brennan explained: "A recent questionnaire sent to local companies asked business owners to rate issues in terms of the importance to themselves and their business."

According to the survey, which questioned more than 1,000 businesses in and around Bolton, the issue voted as most important was reducing corporation and personal tax liabilities.

Hot on the heels at number two was business development and strategic advice, while in third place was succession planning for such as the sale of a business.

However, the most surprising inclusion was that companies want accountants to provide outsourced services, such as IT support, marketing and payroll functions

Ms Brennan said: "The role of accountants has changed considerably, and we are seen as more than just number crunchers.

"Our most popular out-sourced services are in marketing, in particular the preparation of brochures, websites and IT support.

"We are delighted to be able to utilise the knowledge gained from our work to provide cost effective added value services that clients can rely on."