LIVERPOOL Society of Chartered Accountants will receive the Freedom of the City of Liverpool next Tuesday.

The organisation is the oldest “society” of chartered accountants in the country, dating back to 1870 when it was formed by “14 gentlemen engaged in accountancy” and played a pivotal role in helping establish the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).

Next Tuesday the Liverpool society’s 118th president Martyn Best will receive the city’s highest honour from Lord Mayor Cllr Frank Prendergast at Liverpool Town Hall.

Guests include the ICAEW deputy president Mark Spofforth.

Today the ICAEW boasts more than 138,000 members worldwide.

Liverpool president Mr Best said: “Through our collective technical knowledge, skills and expertise, we provide insight and leadership to the global accountancy and finance profession.”

He said the society’s formation “has contributed significantly to the fabric of commerce and business advice within and beyond our city”.

He added: “Today’s world is one of continuing change and where trust, integrity and confidence are seen as crucial factors among the business and wider community, it is essential that the Liverpool Society of Chartered Accountants continues to uphold these values and retain its role within the fabric of our fine city.”