A LONG-established insurance brokers in Bolton will be moving forward as part of a new outfit.

Ives & Taylor, which has been part of the town's financial scene since 1965 and currently employs 13 people, is coming under the umbrella of Partners&.

The Bolton outfit's move will see them become part of a network of 13 offices located across the UK.

Bosses at Partners& had been looking to strengthen their northern presence, through strong commercial lines and professional indemnity work.

Stephen Buckley, Ives & Taylor managing director, said: “We’re excited to be joining Partners&. We believe in the vision Phil has for the business, and the opportunity it brings for our people and our clients.

"We are proud of our heritage and of the service and care we bring to our clients, so it is of critical importance to us to be part of a values-based organisation which shares our core principles around clients and people.”

Phil Barton, Partners& CEO, said: “Creating a hub in the North of England is an important step for us in developing our national footprint.

"For us to continue our mission, which seeks to return the market to the best traditions of advice and relationships, combined with modern thinking and intelligent use of technology, it was critical we aligned ourselves with a business which shares our values and will fit in with our culture. We have found that in Ives & Taylor and I’m confident it will be a good move for the team, their clients and of course, Partners&.”