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ONE of Peterborough’s best known and most respected accountants – Chris Collier – is retiring from Rawlinsons after 47 years with the company.

Chris, who is 65, started working for the firm in 1967 when it was run by four partners and employed 25 staff. Today, Rawlinsons is one of the largest accountancy practices in the city with eight partners and over 50 staff based in Lincoln Road. Chris has been senior partner since 1999 leading the firm through major expansion.

“Peterborough was a very different place when I joined to take up my new role as a trainee accountant,” said Chris. “The city has been transformed into a vibrant place to do business and Rawlinsons has responded to meet modern day demands,” he added.

“In those early days we focused much of our business on the agricultural, printing and engineering sectors but today our portfolio of clients is broad in terms of sector and geography. We have clients all over the country using our services although the vast majority are still relatively local.

“We have embraced the digital age and actively use all the modern online tools available to deliver the most relevant service to clients.

“I am privileged to have worked for a family-orientated firm. I have made lots of friends and business acquaintances over the years; attended hundreds of functions and supported lots of charities. It has been hugely rewarding and I will undoubtedly miss working with my colleagues,” he added.

Away from the office, Chris has spent the last 17 years as chairman of the Peterborough Business Support Group of the NSPCC – and has seen the local group raise in excess of £650,000. All funds raised have been spent locally to support and protect vulnerable children in Greater Peterborough. Chris will continue to drive that charitable initiative in retirement supported by his wife Carol.

“I will still be actively involved in the local business community and will continue to try and improve my golf handicap,” he added, hopefully.

Colin Crowley will replace Chris as managing partner at Rawlinsons, taking up his new role on April 6.