A Crewe-headquartered insurance broker has bought a Knutsford-based counterpart which has been serving customers across Cheshire for more than 50 years.

The County Group has completed the acquisition of Heath Insurance for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 1958, Health Insurance has four members of staff.

Following the deal, Heath Insurance staff and premises will be retained, while the brand will also remain.

Dave Clapp, chief executive of the County Group, said: "We have known and admired Brian [Clarke] with his team at Heath Insurance for several years. It is a very well-managed business and as soon as Brian expressed an interest to sell his brokerage, we were immediately interested.

"After further meetings and going through the due diligence process, we were even more impressed and it was an easy decision for both parties. We are delighted to welcome them into the County Group."

"We are keen to further expand our branch network, reaching out to customers as part of our community broker proposition. Heath Insurance fitted into our strategy perfectly.

"They have been serving the Knutsford and Cheshire region for over 50 years and have a near 50/50 split between personal lines and commercial."

Brian Clarke is the sole owner and manager of Heath Insurance.

He said: "I am really pleased that Heath Insurance is becoming part of the County Group in what is the next chapter in our company's history. After meeting extensively with key members of the County team, and seeing how successful previous acquisitions have been, I am very comfortable this is the right choice moving forward."

"County have an excellent track record in retaining the identity of brokerages, whilst using their size to provide operational efficiency, help with compliance and attract new business via their marketing department.

"Our staff are really excited about the move too as they know that Heath is in good hands. That was important to me, as was ensuring our clients will continue to receive great service."

After the latest deal, County now has 14 branches and more than 200 employees.