A DECISION to work alongside his studies has paid off for a newly-qualified chartered accountant.

Daniel Burrows, 22, who works for Pierce in Blackburn, had previously decided university was not necessarily his best route.

But he was able to study for his ICAEW professional exams over four years while at the Ainsworth Street firm.

Daniel said: "I found out about Pierce through a family friend and I jumped at the chance of having the opportunity to learn while I earn. To gain the qualification I had an exam every three months which was difficult to fit in around my full-time role but I had lots of support from colleagues.

"One was six months ahead of me in my training so understood exactly what I was going through and gave me a lot of advice and support."

He is now a chartered accountant and is developing his role within the audits and accounts team.

Linda Wilkinson, a senior manager, said: "Daniel has worked extremely hard and has been so committed to his studies. He has a bright career ahead of him."