Saint & Co celebrates 140 years with Victorian event

Saint & Co, established in Carlisle in 1884, has become one of the region's leading accountancy firms, serving businesses and individuals across Cumbria and Dumfries and Galloway.

Managing partner, Lindsay Farrer, said: "It is hard not to be inspired by the story of our founding partner, John Jackson Saint, who at the age of 20 moved to Carlisle and within three years had opened his accountancy practice.

"His well-documented work ethic was remarkable and we like to think we continue to embody this in everything we do 140 years on.

"With our headquarters just a couple of miles from where it all started, Saint & Co still feels very much connected to its roots, laid all those years ago by a young man with ambition, drive and energy."

Founded at 10 Bank Street in Carlisle by the chartered accountant John Jackson Saint, the firm quickly became a 'cornerstone' in the city's financial district.

Mr Saint's business sense allowed him to capitalise on changing bankruptcy laws, fuelling the swift growth of the firm.

Despite personal challenges, including the loss of a child and raising a disabled daughter, Mr Saint continued to expand his business and influence.

John Jackson Saint (Image: Supplied)

He became a public figure, serving as an alderman and as a Conservative in Carlisle.

His sons, John Boustead and Roland, inherited the business and their father's 'dedication to the community and excellence.'

Both were 'celebrated sportsmen' and distinguished First World War veterans.

After the war, they steered the firm through the economic challenges of the early 20th century, ensuring its continued success.

The company also weathered the hardships of the Second World War, with its employees and leadership showing 'remarkable dedication.'

Through these trials, J. Jackson Saint & Co. remained a symbol of 'stability and integrity, deeply rooted in family values and community service.'

These values continue to guide the modern Saint & Co, which now operates across Cumbria and Dumfries and Galloway, with 109 members of staff across 10 offices being guided by a board of nine partners who have a collective 218 years of service.

The business has continued to support its communities, with annual charity of the year events held to raise much-needed funds for selected organisations.

In recent years, it has heavily invested in the careers and futures of young people, funding the training of ambitious individuals who are looking to achieve chartered accountant status.

Saint & Co, founded in Carlisle in 1884, has grown into one of the region’s leading accountancy firms (Image: Supplied)

To mark their 140th anniversary, Saint & Co will hold a Victorian-themed fancy dress event at which they will be raising money for their chosen charity of the year.

Ms Farrer said: "Our history and heritage is a daily reminder of the principles this business was founded upon and that we strive to uphold every day.

"Over time, the baton of responsibility has been passed to various people and along with my fellow managing partners, I see working at Saint & Co as a privilege.

"We are looking forward to celebrating this landmark anniversary and to many more years of successful business."