Alex qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 2013 and a Chartered Tax Advisor in 2019 and has been with the firm since 2015, based in our Carlisle office.

Alex has lots of experience in many aspects of tax, providing specialist advice on a vast number of areas, including:

Personal Tax

• Capital gains tax planning including the use of rollover and holdover relief, saving thousands of pounds of tax
• Capital gains tax planning for the disposal of residential property
• Advising on the disposal of businesses & shares to maximise tax relief
• Inheritance Tax planning advice, on how to maximise reliefs and exemptions often saving many thousands of pounds of tax 
• Advising on the tax advantages of utilising trusts

Business tax 

• Advise on structuring businesses to achieve maximum tax savings
• Tax advice on business restructures 
• Corporation tax advice and completion of returns 

Trusts 

• Advice on tax efficient winding up of a trust 
• Tax advice on income and capital distributions 
• Completion of annual accounts and tax returns 
• Calculating and completing returns for exit charges and ten yearly charges

Estates 

• Tax planning advice for executors and beneficiaries to minimise the tax burden on the Estate
• Income tax reporting, whether formally via a tax return, or informally agreeing the liability with HMRC

When not enjoying time with her two young children, Isabelle, 8, and Henri, 6, she is also a keen Gin connoisseur.  She also enjoys going for walks in the Lakes with her husband and children.

“Think ahead and try to think about how your revenue streams will change in the future.”

Clare joined Saint & Co in January 2009. She works with Charities, Academies and Industrial Companies around Cumbria and South West Scotland. Her role involves helping organisations fulfill their statutory audit requirements and ensure they have the internal controls relevant for their business.

Clare says: “Our goal is to help our clients succeed. We do this by helping clients understand their financial situation so they can make better informed decisions about their future.”

Clare is a keen walker, and is often found walking the Lake District fells with her partner and dog.

Helen joined the firm in 2010 and her work focused on the needs of small businesses and the agricultural sector, helping business owners to ensure their records are correct and tax liabilities are minimised. Helen has always enjoyed getting to the heart of the problem, understanding systems and trying to make improvements for her clients.

As Saint & Co has grown in recent years, it was apparent that an effective Practice Manager would be central to driving our business forward in the future. It was a role that seemed to fit with Helen’s interests and skill set, so she transferred to this role in 2021.

“The partners here at Saint and Co. value close working relationships with their clients. This allows us to deliver relevant and specific advice.”

Michelle has been with Saint and Co. since 2000. As a Senior Manager, she is responsible for managing office workflow, reviewing company accounts, calculating and submitting Corporation Tax returns, and training clients and staff on Xero.

Says Michelle: “Like me, many of my colleagues have worked here for a long time. I think this shows that Saint and Co look after their staff very well.”

If Michelle isn’t watching Manchester United, then she’s learning Spanish to help with her next trip to Spain – her favourite sunny destination.

Sharon has been with Saint and Co. since 1988. As a Senior Manager, she is responsible for managing office workflow, staff training, reviewing accounts etc .

She also specialises in dealing with Estates when an individual has passed away, liaising with solicitors and executors as necessary, preparing Estate accounts if required and attending to all related taxation matters, including planning for the beneficiaries to minimise their capital gains tax and income tax liabilities. Her background in accountancy and personal taxation has been beneficial in her understanding of  complex Estates.

Says Sharon: “I think the number of long-serving staff here at Saint and Co only emphasises that this is a great place to work. And I love that I get the chance to play a big part when showing our enthusiastic trainees the ropes.”

In her spare time, Sharon enjoys trying out new recipes in the kitchen, and exploring destinations across the UK and abroad. During lock down , she rediscovered her love of jigsaw puzzles.

“We’re always looking for ways to help our clients run their organisations more efficiently. Time saved could lead to additional revenue.”

Sophie joined Saint & Co in 2003 and is a Senior and Audit Manager with the firm. She carries out audits for Limited Companies, Charities, Academies and professional services firms such as solicitors.

Sophie says: “The best part of my work is getting out and about and meeting various clients and their staff. No two days are ever the same.”

Sophie spends most of her time outside work looking after her daughter, Freya, and son, James. However, when she gets time to herself, she likes to relax by baking.

“Efficiency is key. Know your costs, know your margins and the rest will fall into place.”

Will is the firm’s agricultural adviser and has been working for Saint & Co since 1997. He works with agricultural and rural businesses of all sizes and offers advice on growth, efficiency and profitability.

Will says: “The agricultural sector has a special way of working.  It’s important that our clients feel they can get access to partners who really speak their language and understand the problems and issues they face.”

In his spare time, Will is a keen and proficient darts player, participating in local leagues and playing against darts professionals.

“I’m proud of the fact that over 75% of our new clients are referred via existing clients…”

Andrew joined Saint & Co in 1992 and is based in Penrith. He’s a general accountancy practitioner with expertise in Xero, but focuses most time on providing business assistance and tax guidance to the owners and directors of Limited companies.

Through his work, he helps his clients develop ideas to enhance their business performance and to help them plan, so they don’t need to pay any more tax than necessary. He loves talking big picture, and having conversations with his clients about their future. Andrew says “I take pride in the fact that I am accessible to all my clients and always know exactly what work has been done for them at any given time.”

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting: Running a pub or restaurant.

Mostly likely to find me: Watching Sunderland play football. 

One thing I wish people knew about me: I like to cook and have a small library of cook books.

Clients most often say: I ask questions to dig deeper and 'have you thought about this and that’. I focus more on listening and less on talking.

“I love working for Saint & Co., and value the company’s happy knack for great communication with both clients and staff.”

Catherine joined the payroll team at Saint & Co. in 2016. Her main responsibility is to work with the payroll team on tasks such as wages, payslips, sending RTIs and pensions.

Says Catherine: “I relish the opportunity to solve tricky business problems and meet important deadlines on behalf of our wonderful clients.”

Catherine enjoys spending time with friends and family, and walking her beloved dog Nell.

“I’ve worked for Saint and Co. for over 5 years. My colleagues are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, and it’s easy to see why clients regularly recommend us.”

Emily has been a stalwart of the payroll team at Saint & Co. since 2013. Her role includes processing wages, holiday calculations, RTI submissions, and pension uploads.

Says Emily: “Our brilliant payroll team can help you stay organised and compliant, giving you time to do what you do best – run your business.”

Emily enjoys biking and spending time with her friends.

“By using our payroll services, clients can rest assured that their payroll is in excellent hands, which means they can focus on other aspects of their business.”

Eva is the newest member of the payroll team at Saint & Co. She joined in January 2016.  Her role is to work with the payroll team on tasks such as wages, payslips, sending RTIs and pensions.

Says Eva: “All my colleagues at Saint & Co have been so welcoming, helpful and friendly. I understand why clients stay for so long and continually recommend us.”

Eva believes in ‘family first’ and loves spending time with her family. She has two children and a love of travelling is an interest they all share together.

“I work in a stunning location with friendly and knowledgeable colleagues and get to help a wide variety of interesting clients.”

Fiona is based in our Ambleside office and has been with the firm since 2008. She assists clients with all aspects of their payroll, including holiday pay, statutory pay calculations. She also helps clients with the new AE pension requirements.

Says Fiona: “If I was to offer one piece of advice to businesses, I’d say spend a bit of time planning so you can get all your accounting done in a timely fashion and avoid unnecessary penalties.”

Fiona enjoys walking in the Lake District with her husband and their Labrador.

“If you want to save time and focus on building your business, let us take care of your payroll.”

Graeme has been with Saint & Co since 1973. His role is to manage and oversee the payroll services offered by the firm. This includes processing payrolls including Auto Enrolment and RTI.

Says Graeme: “When you run a business, payroll matters can seem complicated and time consuming. Because we specialise in managing payrolls, we can take care of everything, and your payroll will be dealt with promptly and accurately time after time. We’re a friendly team, you can speak to us any time.”

Graeme is a Carlisle United fan and also enjoys fishing, including a fishing holiday each year. His musical tastes include Northern Soul and anything by David Bowie.

“Your payroll is always in good hands.”

Jackie first worked at Saint & Co back in 1996. She left in 2000 when she had her first son and returned to the fold in 2004.  She has been part of the team ever since. Her role is to process wages for clients, produce payslips, and deal with Auto Enrolment. She also sends BACS payments, and produces RTI and EPS reports for HMRC.

Says Jackie: “I have a lot of day to day contact with clients and really like getting to know them and building a professional relationship. It makes the job very enjoyable.”

Jackie’s life is kept busy outside of work with two sons, two dogs, plus an additional puppy. She unwinds with family walks with all the dogs in tow.

“No two days are ever alike when working at Saint & Co because we meet so many interesting people and different types of businesses.”

Julie is based in our Cockermouth office and has been with Saint & Co since 1996. She helps clients with all aspects of their day-to-day payroll management and also helps with VAT and general accounts.

Says Julie: “Over the years I’ve met a lot of Saint & Co clients and they all say the same thing. They work with us because we’re friendly, informal and always deliver a great service.”

Julie has two teenage daughters, a husband and a Springer Spaniel. Her ambition is to travel around the world one day.

“Saint & Co are always at the end of the phone to help any of our clients, any time. We’re always available to solve problems.”

Tracey has been part of the Saint & Co payroll team since 2014. She is a payroll specialist and manages a wide range of client payrolls. She’s also a troubleshooter for handling issues that may arise.

Says Tracey: “The best thing about working at Saint & Co is the fact that no two days are ever alike. I never know what my day will bring.”

Outside of work Tracey is an enthusiastic fan of Country music. She can often be found walking for miles, listening to Dolly Parton with her Jack Russell puppy in tow.

“It’s great being able to use our tax expertise to help clients achieve their goals”

Pauline has been a part of the Saint & Co family since 1999. She works closely with businesses and personal clients in a wide variety of areas, placing a particular focus on tax planning. 

Pauline helps our clients identify tax planning opportunities and ensures reliefs and exemptions are being maximised with regards to Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains, Share acquisitions & disposals, Income tax and Stamp Duty. Pauline says: “Before you make any major decisions for your business or in your personal life, pick up the phone and speak to us”. 

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting: A florist or something to do with aromatics, I love all the different smells

Mostly likely to find me: At a live music event (I’ve seen well over 100 different performers including Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen and too many other greats to pick out) or out in nature. 

One thing I wish people knew about me:  I’m a frustrated ice skater - wish I had been able to take this up at a much younger age!

Clients most often say: I explain things in a way that makes a complicated matter easy to understand.

Alex qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 2013 and a Chartered Tax Advisor in 2019 and has been with the firm since 2015, based in our Carlisle office.

Alex has lots of experience in many aspects of tax, providing specialist advice on a vast number of areas, including:

Personal Tax

• Capital gains tax planning including the use of rollover and holdover relief, saving thousands of pounds of tax
• Capital gains tax planning for the disposal of residential property
• Advising on the disposal of businesses & shares to maximise tax relief
• Inheritance Tax planning advice, on how to maximise reliefs and exemptions often saving many thousands of pounds of tax 
• Advising on the tax advantages of utilising trusts

Business tax 

• Advise on structuring businesses to achieve maximum tax savings
• Tax advice on business restructures 
• Corporation tax advice and completion of returns 

Trusts 

• Advice on tax efficient winding up of a trust 
• Tax advice on income and capital distributions 
• Completion of annual accounts and tax returns 
• Calculating and completing returns for exit charges and ten yearly charges

Estates 

• Tax planning advice for executors and beneficiaries to minimise the tax burden on the Estate
• Income tax reporting, whether formally via a tax return, or informally agreeing the liability with HMRC

When not enjoying time with her two young children, Isabelle, 8, and Henri, 6, she is also a keen Gin connoisseur.  She also enjoys going for walks in the Lakes with her husband and children.

Sharon has been with Saint and Co. since 1988. As a Senior Manager, she is responsible for managing office workflow, staff training, reviewing accounts etc .

She also specialises in dealing with Estates when an individual has passed away, liaising with solicitors and executors as necessary, preparing Estate accounts if required and attending to all related taxation matters, including planning for the beneficiaries to minimise their capital gains tax and income tax liabilities. Her background in accountancy and personal taxation has been beneficial in her understanding of  complex Estates.

Says Sharon: “I think the number of long-serving staff here at Saint and Co only emphasises that this is a great place to work. And I love that I get the chance to play a big part when showing our enthusiastic trainees the ropes.”

In her spare time, Sharon enjoys trying out new recipes in the kitchen, and exploring destinations across the UK and abroad. During lock down , she rediscovered her love of jigsaw puzzles.

Andrew has been a part of the Saint & Co family since 1989 and is based in the Wigton office. Although specialising in Farming and Agriculture, Andrew has clients in a wide range of sectors and as well as overseeing the accounts and tax compliance work, he also helps clients understand how to minimise their tax liabilities and improve profitability.

Andrew is most at home when he’s chatting with clients, many of whom have known him up to 30 years. He says: “I’d like to think my clients see me as somebody they can trust to always have their best interests at heart. I get a real sense of satisfaction when clients acknowledge that we’ve played a part in their success.”

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting:  Leading cycling tours in Spain

Mostly likely to find me: Cycling, walking the dog or watching sport

One thing I wish people knew about me: I’m a classically trained pianist

Clients most often say: I'm easy to get on with and I'll look after them.

“Don’t be afraid to get in touch, we’re always delighted to help…”

Jennifer has been with Saint & Co since 2007. Based in the Annan, Dumfries and Castle Douglas offices she helps clients with all aspects of their business and personal tax affairs.

Working in the heart of a rural economy Jennifer spends her time supporting a variety of owner-managed and family run businesses across a wide range of industries. Most of all, she enjoys speaking with clients and figuring out the best way to help them. Jennifer says: “A quick phone call to us before making any big decisions could save business owners a lot of time and tax. We’re easy to talk to, and always have our client’s best interests at heart.”

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting: Travelling, there are so many places I’d like to visit

Mostly likely to find me: In the office – sometimes I feel like I practically live there!

One thing I wish people knew about me:  When I was younger I played the piano accordion and won the UK Championship!

Clients most often say: I’m proactive and hard-working, always get back to them and never let them down.

“Business owners shouldn’t be afraid of change. If something’s not working or selling, change it.”

William has been with the firm since 1999 and is based in the Cockermouth office. He grew up on his family’s hill farm and knows the farming and agricultural community extremely well.

He believes that a key part of his role is to encourage clients to take an interest in their overall financial position so they can ensure they’re on the right path to meet their business goals.

William says: “I enjoy working with ‘hands-on’ owner-managed businesses. I get to work with real people with real aspirations, and I love being a part of their achievements.”

Like many people who grew up on a farm, William has been driving vehicles of all shapes and sizes since he was 13 years old.

“Efficiency is key. Know your costs, know your margins and the rest will fall into place.”

Will is the firm’s agricultural adviser and has been working for Saint & Co since 1997. He works with agricultural and rural businesses of all sizes and offers advice on growth, efficiency and profitability.

Will says: “The agricultural sector has a special way of working.  It’s important that our clients feel they can get access to partners who really speak their language and understand the problems and issues they face.”

In his spare time, Will is a keen and proficient darts player, participating in local leagues and playing against darts professionals.

“If you benchmark the financials in your business, it helps you compare your costs to similar businesses in your sector.”

Darren has been with Saint & Co since 2003. He is an audit partner who works with a wide range of clients, but has a significant amount of experience in working with Academies.

He guides and supports his clients through the audit process to make it as painless as possible. While Academies form a large part of his portfolio, he also has many clients in other sectors and relishes the diversity in size and variety of his client base. Darren says: “Auditing can be a daunting process. We do our best to make it straightforward for our clients. We’re always on your side.”

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting: Professional sportsman as you get paid for doing your passion.

Mostly likely to find me: Cycling the passes in Lake District or trail running, anything to keep fit and healthy. 

One thing I wish people knew about me: I can normally see other people’s points of view easily.

Clients most often say: That i have an attention to detail and hard working.

“We combine the professionalism of a regional practice with the flexibility and friendliness of a local firm…”

Ian has been with the firm since 1991 and is based in the Ambleside office. He works with a wide range of clients from small startups through to well-established businesses, focusing particularly on Hospitality, Tourism and Academies. 

Ian is the conduit between the clients who need help and the staff who provide the work, offering up support and answering questions. Ian describes himself as a people person. He welcomes the latest innovations that help make accountancy services more efficient, but firmly believes that technology will never replace the value of strong client relationships.

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting:  Something to do with rugby

Mostly likely to find me: Watching rugby and spending time with family 

One thing I wish people knew about me: Because of my background, I have empathy with anyone trying to make a living in the area, no matter the industry. 

Clients most often say: I'm approachable and they can talk to me.

“I love that no two days are ever the same…”

Stuart has been part of Saint & Co since 1990 and is a well-known personality in the Carlisle business community. He values the time he spends meeting clients and advising them on their business finances.

Stuart supports a range of businesses from one man plumbers up to £30m corporate companies, placing a particular focus on charities. Most of all, Stuart loves the variety in his work and having a different conversation every day. He says “I like to spend time getting to know people and their businesses very well. My job is interesting every day.”

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting: Playing guitar in a band… or playing rugby or cricket for England

Mostly likely to find me: Involved in sport - either rugby or cricket, cycling or learning to play the guitar (a new hobby). 

One thing I wish people knew about me: That I'm learning to play the guitar at 50

Clients most often say: I don't look like an accountant. 

“Think ahead and try to think about how your revenue streams will change in the future.”

Clare joined Saint & Co in January 2009. She works with Charities, Academies and Industrial Companies around Cumbria and South West Scotland. Her role involves helping organisations fulfill their statutory audit requirements and ensure they have the internal controls relevant for their business.

Clare says: “Our goal is to help our clients succeed. We do this by helping clients understand their financial situation so they can make better informed decisions about their future.”

Clare is a keen walker, and is often found walking the Lake District fells with her partner and dog.

“We’re always looking for ways to help our clients run their organisations more efficiently. Time saved could lead to additional revenue.”

Sophie joined Saint & Co in 2003 and is a Senior and Audit Manager with the firm. She carries out audits for Limited Companies, Charities, Academies and professional services firms such as solicitors.

Sophie says: “The best part of my work is getting out and about and meeting various clients and their staff. No two days are ever the same.”

Sophie spends most of her time outside work looking after her daughter, Freya, and son, James. However, when she gets time to herself, she likes to relax by baking.

“I love that no two days are ever the same…”

Stuart has been part of Saint & Co since 1990 and is a well-known personality in the Carlisle business community. He values the time he spends meeting clients and advising them on their business finances.

Stuart supports a range of businesses from one man plumbers up to £30m corporate companies, placing a particular focus on charities. Most of all, Stuart loves the variety in his work and having a different conversation every day. He says “I like to spend time getting to know people and their businesses very well. My job is interesting every day.”

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting: Playing guitar in a band… or playing rugby or cricket for England

Mostly likely to find me: Involved in sport - either rugby or cricket, cycling or learning to play the guitar (a new hobby). 

One thing I wish people knew about me: That I'm learning to play the guitar at 50

Clients most often say: I don't look like an accountant. 

“People in the local area know and trust us to take care of their business finances.”

Ian has been with the firm since 1999. Though Ian works with all kinds of businesses, he’s an engagement partner for a number of local charities, and supports many of our clients in the agricultural and engineering sectors.

As well as general accounting and taxation advice, Ian spends time assisting clients in their business planning. He works with startups through to million-pound expansion projects including advice on fundraising, management accounting and forecasting. Ian says: “The best part of my job is getting to know our clients and having the opportunity to get under the skin of their businesses”

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting: Would love to have been a professional jazz fusion drummer. 

Mostly likely to find me: Fishing for salmon on The River Derwent or sea angling on the Solway Coast.

One thing I wish people knew about me: Despite appearances I’m a keen cyclist.

Clients most often say: That I’m approachable, and I have a good sense of humour.

“We’re always looking for ways to help our clients run their organisations more efficiently. Time saved could lead to additional revenue.”

Sophie joined Saint & Co in 2003 and is a Senior and Audit Manager with the firm. She carries out audits for Limited Companies, Charities, Academies and professional services firms such as solicitors.

Sophie says: “The best part of my work is getting out and about and meeting various clients and their staff. No two days are ever the same.”

Sophie spends most of her time outside work looking after her daughter, Freya, and son, James. However, when she gets time to herself, she likes to relax by baking.

“We combine the professionalism of a regional practice with the flexibility and friendliness of a local firm…”

Ian has been with the firm since 1991 and is based in the Ambleside office. He works with a wide range of clients from small startups through to well-established businesses, focusing particularly on Hospitality, Tourism and Academies. 

Ian is the conduit between the clients who need help and the staff who provide the work, offering up support and answering questions. Ian describes himself as a people person. He welcomes the latest innovations that help make accountancy services more efficient, but firmly believes that technology will never replace the value of strong client relationships.

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting:  Something to do with rugby

Mostly likely to find me: Watching rugby and spending time with family 

One thing I wish people knew about me: Because of my background, I have empathy with anyone trying to make a living in the area, no matter the industry. 

Clients most often say: I'm approachable and they can talk to me.

“I find it immensely satisfying to see a client business succeed and feel lucky and proud to have been a part of it.”

Lindsay joined Saint & Co in 1998 and has been a partner since 2008. She’s based in the Carlisle office and works with a wide range of clients from sole traders through to companies with a multi-million pound turnover.

As well as providing general accountancy services and tax advice Lindsay and has helped many companies with sales and acquisitions. Being a business owner herself, she can relate to many of the struggles Saint’s clients go through. Helping those businesses flourish is what she goes to work for. Lindsay says: “One piece of advice I would give to anyone running a business is to focus on your strengths and don’t sell yourself short.”

What I’d most like to be doing if I wasn’t in Accounting: A restaurant or hotel critic as I love eating out / staying in hotels and have an eye for detail.

Mostly likely to find me: Spending time with family, on walks or bike rides with the kids. 

One thing I wish people knew about me: I've got a good sense of humour and find people really interesting. I'm quiet in life so often people don't realise!

Clients most often say: I'm driven and passionate about my job. I've got common sense and I’m a good thinker.