TWO leading audit specialists at a North-East accountancy firm have been promoted to assistant managers.

Louise McCann and Lizzie Thomson, who both joined chartered accountants and business advisers Clive Owen and Co LLP as trainees, have been rewarded with new roles.

Louise, who works at the Darlington office, joined the firm in 2006 and qualified as a chartered accountant three years later.

She is part of the audit team, supporting manager Kathryn Bradley with a number of charities, academies and owner managed entities.

Lizzie is based at the company's Durham City office and has been with the firm for six years.

A qualified chartered accountant and chartered tax accountant, she is a member of the tax and audit and accounts team.

Simon Hook, a partner with Clive Owen, said: “We are delighted to recognise the work and commitment that Louise and Lizzie have demonstrated.

“They are both valuable members of the team and becoming more involved in key aspects of our business.

“In particular, it’s always encouraging to see people in the team progress especially when they joined as a trainee.”