A company which hopes to change the face of accountancy for start-ups and small businesses has launched in Penryn.

As well as traditional accountancy services, Crunchers offers fledgling businesses free advice in the form of seminars and online video content to support them through every stage of their development. Based at the Tremough Innovation Centre, Crunchers was co-founded by accountant Bob Harper, who has a vision of providing a one-stop-shop of support services for small businesses.

Bob, who worked for international accountants Price Waterhouse before moving to Cornwall, said: "Not only do we want to change the way small businesses manage their finances, we want to offer something extra. I know from personal experience how confusing and overwhelming it can be to negotiate all the information available to new businesses - it's a minefield.

"I wanted to simplify the whole process. An accountant is a must-have for any business, but we want to offer business owners more than just accounts and tax. Accountants have a reputation for all being the same - well not any more."

Crunchers, which specialises in start-ups and small businesses with a turnover below £1 million, operates online and uses video-conferencing to form a personal relationship with its clients. It aims to reduce the cost of accountancy by using technology, freeing up time to help businesses grow.

Services including accounting, tax solutions, book keeping, administration support, strategic business planning and live online results coaching.

Clients also have access to a wealth of world-class content published by Crunchers, including an introduction to business funding, videos on mindsets, online courses and interviews with successful business owners.

Bob and his business partner Tim Pointon have set up the More Network for like-minded business owners who want to make a difference. They share their knowledge and software with these firms to help them do more for their clients.

"Start-ups and small businesses deserve more than traditional number crunching," said Bob. "We want to help them tap into expert knowledge and advice usually reserved for big businesses."

For more information visit www.crunchersaccountants.co.uk or call 0333 320 4550.