A pair of accountants have been shortlisted for prestigious regional awards.

Lewis Dickinson and Sam Bell, both of Dodd & Co Chartered Accountants, have been nominated for the Northern Society Presidents’ Awards.

Each will go head-to-head with other accountants in their respective exam stage categories. Mr Dickinson, a fully qualified chartered accountant, has been nominated for the Final Stage, while Ms Bell, who is studying for her final exams, is shortlisted for the Professional Stage.

The pair began their careers through the well-established Dodd & Co apprenticeship programme.

Ms Bell studied at Nelson Thomlinson School in Wigton and looked at alternative routes to university.

Mr Dickinson attended Richard Rose Morton Academy in Carlisle and was offered the opportunity to apply for one of a limited number of places on the school’s Career Academy programme.

The programme offered the opportunity for businesses in the local area to mentor students, helping them develop life skills as well as business skills.

Mr Dickinson gained work experience in the accounts and support department of Dodd & Co, which enabled him to progress and secure a permanent position at the firm.

Jeanette Brown, partner at Dodd & Co, said: “We are extremely proud of Sam and Lewis, continuing to excel in their achievements, not only in their fantastic contribution to our team and our clients, but also in their wider support for their local communities through their voluntary work outside of the office.

“Their low-key, hard-working approach is a rare and admirable characteristic and demonstrates great integrity.

“They both very much deserve their nominations and we wish them both the very best of luck in the final.”

The awards ceremony takes place on October 11 in Newcastle.