A century of supporting Torbay

For more than 105 years, PKF Francis Clark has been woven into the fabric of Torbay’s business community. From small family firms to ambitious fast‑growing enterprises, the firm has witnessed the region’s economic evolution first-hand and has proudly supported businesses through every stage of their journey.

What has always set PKF Francis Clark apart is an approach that goes far beyond the numbers. While accurate tax and financial advice is at the heart of what they do, the real focus is on understanding the people behind the businesses: listening, offering fresh ideas and building relationships that last.

The firm’s commitment to Torbay continues to grow. It recently renewed the lease on Sigma House, Edginswell Park, for another 10 years, securing its presence in the community well into the future. More than 100 employees are based in the Torquay office, many of whom grew up in the area, reflecting the firm’s dedication to nurturing local talent.

That commitment extends to developing the next generation too. Each year, the Torquay office welcomes new accounting and tax trainees through structured development programmes . We offer professional qualifications, hands-on experience and the support needed to build a successful career, with three trainees already confirmed for this year.

The Torquay team provides a comprehensive range of accounting services, including audit and assurance, tax advisory and compliance, business advisory, personal financial planning and payroll. This breadth of expertise means the firm can support clients with both day-to-day challenges and long-term strategic decisions.

With nine offices across the South West, PKF Francis Clark is also proud to be recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces and a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer, creating an environment where people feel valued, supported and encouraged to grow. This culture extends to the way we work with clients and the wider community.

Making a positive impact locally is a core part of the firm’s identity. Each office selects a charity of the year to support, and this year Torquay is raising funds for Rowcroft Hospice and Children’s Hospice South West.

Every colleague receives a dedicated volunteering day each year, and the team has been active across the region, from clearing brambles and picking apples at the Barn Owl Trust to gardening at Rowcroft Hospice, maintaining pathways at Paignton Zoo and supporting grounds work at Animals in Distress in Ipplepen. The team also took part in Rowcroft Hospice’s Accumulator Challenge, transforming a £50 loan into over £1,550 to be reinvested into the hospice.

Community spirit was also on full display during a corporate padel tournament held in partnership with Wollens. The event brought together 16 local teams for a lively mix of sport, networking and fundraising, raising £770 for Children’s Hospice South West. It was a reminder of how collaboration and friendly competition can bring people together while making a meaningful difference.

Sustainability remains another priority for the firm, championed by the green team which empowers colleagues to drive positive environmental change.

Heading up the Torquay office is Ryan Prynne, a partner who leads the client service team. Alongside supporting clients with general compliance matters, he is passionate about helping them achieve their long-term strategic goals. His expertise spans personal wealth planning, business value enhancement and tax-efficient structuring, ensuring clients can grow with confidence.

Earlier this year, Ryan and four colleagues – Paul Butler, Chris Hill, James Thomas and Tom Stone – raised over £10,000 for Children with Cancer UK by completing a walking, cycling and skiing challenge in the Arctic Circle.

This article was originally published in Torbay Tomorrow magazine.