About us
Chartered Accountants in Cornwall since 1935
Whitakers (South West) Limited is one of the longest-established firms of Chartered Accountants in Cornwall — still based in Newquay, still personally run by principals who trained here.
Our heritage
A distinguished heritage in Cornwall
Founded in 1935, Whitakers has been providing ethical, personal and professional accountancy services to businesses and individuals across Cornwall and the South West for over 85 years. Few firms in the region can match that depth of local continuity.
The firm remains rooted in Newquay, where it has served the community through generations of change in business, tax and regulation. That longevity is not incidental — it reflects a consistent commitment to the clients and industries that define this part of England.
The principals
Meet the people behind the firm
Principal
S G Hawkey FCA
Stephen joined Whitakers in 1993, having trained and qualified with the firm. Over more than 30 years he has built deep knowledge of the industries intrinsic to Cornwall and the South West — farming, tourism and leisure among them. That long tenure means clients benefit from sector understanding that only comes with time and genuine local presence.
Principal
L P Sole FCA
Paul joined Whitakers in 1997, having also trained and qualified with the firm. His career has been shaped by the particular challenges facing South West businesses, giving him an invaluable understanding of the issues that matter most to clients in this region. Together, the two principals bring a combined tenure of over 60 years with Whitakers.
How we work
Our commitment to every client
Every client is personally assigned to a principal, supported by qualified Chartered Accountants and staff — so you always know who is looking after your affairs.
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01
Personal assignment
You are assigned directly to a principal from the outset. Continuity of contact is not a promise — it is built into how the firm is structured.
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02
Transparent fees
Fees are discussed and agreed at the initial meeting, so there are no surprises. You understand the cost of the work before it begins.
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03
Accessible hours
The office is open Monday to Friday, 9.00am–5.15pm. Appointments outside those hours can be arranged to suit your schedule.
Credentials & memberships
Recognised standards, trusted partners
Whitakers holds membership of the ICAEW Practice Assurance Scheme and Mercia, and works with a range of leading accountancy software platforms to support clients however they manage their finances.
Ready to work with a firm that knows Cornwall?
Get in touch with Whitakers to arrange an initial meeting. Fees are discussed upfront, and you will be introduced to your principal from day one.