AN EXPANDING chartered accountancy firm which only recently opened a base in Keighley has taken on five new employees.

Auker Rhodes Professional Services LLP, have recruited the staff to supplement their existing workforce at the Aire Valley Business Centre, Lawkholme Lane, and in Greengates, Bradford.

The company has said it is keen to capitalise on the upturn in the economy, and is delighted to have been able to recruit a selection of school leavers and graduates into all areas of their business.

Richard Kenyon, audit partner, said: "As everyone in business knows, the last few years have been a time of consolidation rather than growth, and therefore it feels refreshing to be finally expanding our workforce and to be able to provide opportunities to young people starting out on their careers.

"We were very impressed with the calibre of all our applicants, and we look forward to training and developing our new employees as they commence their professional careers."