A SOUTH Lakeland investment firm has expanded by opening new premises.

Independent Investment Associates Ltd has opened an office on the top floor of Exchange Chambers at 8-10 Highgate, Kendal.

The firm, whose head office will remain at Grange-over-Sands, has taken on an extra fulltime member of staff following the expansion..

Independent Investment Associates Ltd, which specialises in investment advice for individuals and trusts and inheritance tax planning, has more than £50 million of client assets under management.

Director Gary Richardson said: "We pride ourselves on the fact we are truly independent resulting in completely impartial advice on a personal basis. It is quality in all areas that has been fundamental to our success."

Meanwhile, fellow director Leigh Hornby has completed the Advanced Financial Planning certificate and joined an elite band of members of the Society of Financial Advisers.