NEWPORT insolvency specialist Purnells is celebrating its staff's success in the latest Joint Insolvency Board examinations (JIEB).

The JIEB exams are open only to qualified accountants and solicitors and are claimed to be some of the toughest professional qualifications to achieve. The national pass rate is about 35%. Purnells now has three more qualified insolvency practitioners in the shape of Suzi Purnell (daughter of managing director Ray), Michelle Williams and Leigh Homes.

Ray Purnell said: "I'm extremely proud of Suzi, Leigh and Michelle and I wish them every future success."

Mr Purnell was also quick to thank Neil Taylor, of BPP Courses in London, who provided the tuition for the exams.

"Neil worked the team hard and I'm grateful for his contribution in helping us achieve this superb set of results."

Mr Taylor said: "Purnells' results were easily the best in the country." Purnells is now claiming to have more qualified insolvency practitioners in one practice than anywhere else in Wales.

Mr Purnell said: "We have invested heavily in extra training within the practice and created a bigger resource base for our clients. With so many highly-qualified people knocking about, I can start to think about retirement!"