A WEALTH management firm has been rebranded to become a financial planning business’ North-East hub.

Pearson Jones, in Bishop Auckland, is now known as 1825, after it was bought by Standard Life.

Standard Life is building a wholly-owned, UK-wide financial planning division to meet rising demand, and says it has made Pearson its regional focal point.

Bosses say, despite the name change, clients will still have access to financial planners, paraplanners and tax and trust services.

Tim Johnson, 1825 North-East managing director, who previously held the same role at Pearson Jones, said: “Unprecedented changes in the market mean that more than ever, people need quality financial planning and advice from skilled professionals.

“By becoming part of 1825, our expertise is backed by a leading investments savings business with experience and longevity and we are more able to meet this growing need.”

The 1825 name refers to the year Standard Life was founded, and Steve Murray, its chief executive, said its history and reputation, coupled with Pearson Jones’ qualities, will deliver a perfect match.

He added: “Our business has changed over time to meet customers’ demands, but our brand has been a constant; a promise and expectation of quality for our clients and customers.

“Building on our 190-year heritage, while signposting our new planning services, we’re introducing 1825 as the brand name of our financial planning business.”