We are the ‘heart of Hale’
We are delighted to feature in the latest edition of J-Life magazine discussing our role in the heart of the community in Hale. Here follows a reproduction of the full article that appeared:
For accountancy firm Alexander Knight & Co, being based in Hale is about far more than just an office location, it’s about being part of a thriving, ambitious and well-connected community.
Hale has firmly established itself as one of Greater Manchester’s most dynamic business hubs, attracting entrepreneurs, professionals and growing businesses who value both lifestyle and opportunity. It’s a place where people don’t just work, they live, socialise and build meaningful relationships.
That’s exactly why Alexander Knight & Co chooses to call Hale home.
Situated in the heart of the village, the firm’s Grade A offices on Hale Road quite literally overlook one of the area’s most important landmarks, Hale railway station, of which Alexander Knight & Co is the official sponsor.
Originally opened in 1862, Hale station has long served as a vital link in the Greater Manchester rail network, connecting the village to Manchester, Chester and beyond via the Mid Cheshire line. Today, it remains a central artery of local life used daily by residents, commuters, businesses and visitors alike.
This official sponsorship reflects a genuine commitment to the community. Alongside local volunteer groups such as Friends of Hale Station, the Alexander Knight & Co team is actively involved in supporting the upkeep and ongoing enhancement of this historic gateway.
With the firm’s branding now prominently displayed, the station stands as a visible symbol of its investment and commitment to Hale.
Murray Patt, founder of Alexander Knight & Co, explains:
“We’re proud to be associated with Hale station which is a central part of our local community used daily by many of our clients and colleagues. Supporting local infrastructure is important to us and our team is happy to get hands-on alongside other volunteers to make the local environment the best it can possibly be.”
This sense of connection extends into every aspect of the firm’s presence in Hale.
Clients benefit not only from a central location, but from something increasingly rare – ease. With convenient parking at the office, visiting Alexander Knight & Co is stress-free, avoiding congestion, parking charges and the challenges that often come with travelling into Manchester city centre.
For many, that convenience is a deciding factor. Murray explains:
“We often hear from clients that they prefer coming to Hale rather than heading into town. It’s easier, more relaxed, and you can actually enjoy the experience.
“From high-quality restaurants and stylish bars to independent cafés and brunch spots, the village has become a destination in its own right. Meetings with clients often extend beyond the office and into local coffee shops, lunches on Ashley Road or informal conversations that strengthen relationships in a more relaxed setting. It’s something that appeals to many of our clients.”
This lifestyle element is a big part of Hale’s appeal, particularly for the firm’s client base, which includes leading entrepreneurs and business owners from across Greater Manchester.
Hale is also widely recognised for its excellent schools, making it an attractive place for families as well as business owners. That strong educational foundation is something Alexander Knight & Co is keen to build on.
The firm actively encourages young people in the local area to consider careers in accountancy, offering clear pathways into the profession through training, mentorship and hands-on experience. Its graduate scheme is already proving popular, attracting ambitious individuals looking to build their careers within a supportive and forward-thinking firm.
Alison Spier, head of HR and Training at Alexander Knight & Co, explains:
“We are passionate about developing the next generation of accountants. Hale is full of talented young people and we want to show them that there’s a real opportunity to build a successful career right here. Our graduate scheme is a great opportunity for young people to progress a career in accountancy and be surrounded by high-growth entrepreneurs.”
Hale’s appeal is further strengthened by its exceptional connectivity. With direct access to the motorway network and close proximity to Manchester Airport, the village is ideally positioned for modern business.
As a member of MGI Worldwide, a global network of independent accounting firms, the team regularly supports clients investing into the UK, as well as UK-based clients expanding overseas combining local expertise with global reach.
Since moving to Hale in 2018, the firm has expanded its team, built long-standing relationships and developed strong connections with other professionals across Hale and neighbouring Altrincham. From lawyers and wealth managers to property specialists and consultants, the local ecosystem thrives on collaboration.
That entrepreneurial spirit is one of Hale’s defining characteristics and one that aligns perfectly with the firm’s approach.
Murray Patt, sums up the importance of the entrepreneurial spirit that is one of Hale’s defining characteristics and one that aligns perfectly with his own approach:
“As accountants, we thrive in an environment where there’s energy and ambition. Hale is arguably one of the best places in Greater Manchester for that. It’s also a place where trust matters.
“We’re proud to have become a trusted name within the local community and beyond, known for delivering clear, commercially focused advice and building lasting relationships with business owners. Being based in the heart of Hale remains central to our approach and I believe that being in the right place makes all the difference.”
