A BISHOP Auckland-based financial planning business has taken on a new guise after being acquired by Standard Life.

Pearson Jones has become the North-East hub for Standard Life's new UK wide financial planning business, 1825.

The new name refers to the year Standard Life was founded and reflects its heritage as one of the UK’s oldest financial services brands.

As part of 1825, Pearson Jones' clients will continue to have access to a dedicated team including financial planners, paraplanners, tax and trust services and a client support team.

The 1825 team will help clients define their priorities and meet their needs through a comprehensive financial planning service.

Tim Johnson, managing director of 1825 North East, who was formerly managing director of 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 business also has offices in Edinburgh, Leeds, Sheffield and Reading.