Katherine Judge

Client since 2014

I feel very reassured. I have great peace of mind when thinking of my financial future because I feel I'm in very good hands. They've taken into account what stage I'm at in my life, what I want from the future, particularly with regards to legacy to my children and other members of my family, and my own comfort and financial security going forward.

My name is Katherine Judge and I’ll have been a client of Cheltenham IFA for 10 years in 2024. My adviser is Tara Wood.

I got in touch with Cheltenham IFA not long after I retired because I had moved house and released some capital on retirement, and I wanted some advice on how best to invest it.

My background was in the arts so I had no financial experience of my own other than having a savings account in my bank. So, I needed professional help to pull that together to protect the capital and help it work for me.

Fortuitously, the solicitor that I use in Cheltenham is right next door. They are neighbour companies on the same street in Cheltenham and as I had newly moved there, I didn’t have any recommendations. So, I just decided to start a dialogue with Cheltenham IFA and it’s turned out to be an extremely fruitful relationship. I’m very happy with them.

The main reason I decided to go ahead was that I felt they fully understood my situation in life. I was newly retired, in a new phase of my life with no regular income other than pensions, and they were very well versed in guiding people like me at this stage of one’s life.

I feel very reassured. I have great peace of mind when thinking of my financial future because I feel I’m in very good hands. They’ve taken into account what stage I’m at in my life, what I want from the future, particularly with regards to legacy to my children and other members of my family, and my own comfort and financial security going forward.

When I’m working with Cheltenham IFA, I have complete trust in them and I think that’s a very important first step. I felt like that from the moment I engaged them to help me look after my investments. They are efficient, friendly and responsive to any question however big or small, and there’s never a delay in anyone getting back to me even when we haven’t met in person. It’s worked very well over the phone where I’ve just wanted a piece of specific advice.

The three words I would use to describe Cheltenham IFA are experienced, professional and friendly.

The best thing for me is the relationship I have with my adviser, Tara, because I enjoy meeting people and getting to know people. I had a very people-focused job before I retired. I enjoy talking to her either on the phone or when we meet in person and I quite look forward to my annual review because I enjoy talking to her.

I would definitely recommend Cheltenham IFA to other people if the occasion arose. I’m not in the habit of recommending retailers or where I shop, for example, but I think if I met with a friend of mine, and they were wondering where to go, I would have absolutely no hesitation in telling them to start with Cheltenham IFA.

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I have been advised by CIFA for the past 10 years or so regarding my financial situation and investments and been thoroughly satisfied with the service provided.
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8 June 2026
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Sharon Pender profile picture
Sharon Pender
8 June 2026
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Really happy with the service I receive from Andrew Mansion. He is very clear in his explanations and puts me at ease and he is very easy to talk to. I don’t pretend to understand everything in the world of complex pensions, but feel I can really trust Andrew and thank him for all his help. Would highly recommend him to anyone. Thank you
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Red Fox
7 June 2026
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I moved two pensions to Cheltenham IFA last year, this was managed by Ben who explained everything very thoroughly answering any questions I had. I'm very happy with what has been achieved so far, albeit early days. I'll be moving further funds across later this year. Update. I continue to be impressed with the services of Cheltenham IFA. It's been something of a rocky road in terms of global influences on the markets for 2025 to mid 2026 but my funds have weathered the storm impressively considering. A slight realignment was required earlier this year, to guard against the unforeseen global impact of war and political situations, which resulted in a CGT hit. Subsequent results appear to have more than made up for this.
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Cici Piciorus
26 May 2026
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Great experience, lots of knowledge tailored to our circumstances. THANK YOU , Ben .
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nora teale
25 May 2026
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very helpful and he explained in language we understood
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Madeleine Howe profile picture
Madeleine Howe
2 May 2026
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We've used CIFA for over a decade. We have regular meetings with our adviser who goes through a written report with us. We update any changes in our circumstances and review and make plans for the future. We have seen a steady growth in our assets and appreciate the expertise made available to us.
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Paula Jones profile picture
Paula Jones
30 April 2026
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I've been really reassured by Ben Burgess and feel my finances are in safe hands. He doesn't go over the top with financial jargon, doesn't treat my like a fool if I don't know an acronym and is really respectful of my wishes for my finances and is not pushy. I've been recommending him all over the place as he's a 'different' FA which is really reassuring. I don't recommend lightly as I know it's a personal thing, but for me, I can only sing Ben's praises.
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Carol Ruskell
30 April 2026
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We have been clients of Cheltenham Independent Financial Advisors for the past two years. From the initial conversation through to investment decisions,Ben Burgess has not only explained the investment options available to us,he has also taken the time to listen to our goals and ambitions,along with our position regarding risk .He has delivered an excellent package,which so far has exceeded our expectations. He is very professional,but also makes you feel you are working together as a team to achieve our investment goals. We would thoroughly recommend Ben and Cheltenham Independent Financial services to anyone who is looking for first class service and the best possible returns.
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Kevin Ord profile picture
Kevin Ord
17 April 2026
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They helped me plan my retirement and guided me through the complexities of the pensions market and its myriad of products. Its been operational for 16 months now and has run like a dream. Very happy with the service and delivery
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Andrew Irvine
14 April 2026
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CIFA have once again exceeded our expectations as regards the management of our investments always acting in a timely manner. Our Adviser Tara Wood together with the supporting technical team at Cheltenham IFA always keep us abreast as regards any changes likely to impact on our investments and importantly proffer ,where appropriate , solutions to best protect our portfolio in times of market volatility.We definitely can recommend Tara and CIFA for their overall competency , technical expertise and professionalism . Reviewed by Andy & Janis Irvine .
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Nigel Ball profile picture
Nigel Ball
8 March 2026
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My FA session with Andrew Mansion was informative, very productive. Achieving a very clear path forward. Highly recommend this company.
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Graham Miller profile picture
Graham Miller
4 March 2026
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Great organisation with a laser focus on optimising your wealth plan
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Paul Knowles profile picture
Paul Knowles
27 February 2026
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My wife and I decided to swap IFAs for geographical reasons and chose Cheltenham Independent Advisers Ltd from the reviews we found on-line. We find them very professional and easy to talk to and "down to earth" recognizing immediately what we wanted and advised us on the best way to achieve this. While we have only been with them a few months we are impressed with them for the above reasons. The transfer of our existing pensions was efficient and seamless and occurred with minimal disruption to us and they were able to stay in the "platform" we had already set up. We hope to have a long and productive relationship with the company as they help us with our long term financial aims.
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Lorenzo Ronconi
19 November 2025
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Andy Mansion was very helpful and polite when explaining his perspective on my overseas residency issue.
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Paul profile picture
Paul
7 November 2025
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Welcoming, knowledgeable and respectful appointment with Maddie and the team. Would highly recommend contacting the team if you’re considering any financial assistance in planning for your future!
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Dincan Nottingham
12 August 2025
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Would recommend ( And have!) to anyone who needs any advice on their pension! Great service!
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Donald Potter profile picture
Donald Potter
22 July 2025
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Andrew was very helpful and explained things in a way I understood .
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Philip Raymond profile picture
Philip Raymond
10 July 2025
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We always receive professional, friendly and sound advise from Ben Burgess and have happily recommended this company to friends and family.
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David Routledge profile picture
David Routledge
6 July 2025
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We had a good meeting with Madeline, she informed us on where investments were heading.
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Steve Comer profile picture
Steve Comer
5 June 2025
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Have used Cheltenham Independent Financial Advisors to bring together all my pensions. Have found them very professional, personable and efficient. Would recommend.
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Terence Evans
5 June 2025
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Ben volunteered to visit me in Bristol eor the second time this year to explain his proposed actions and get my agreement. He was on time and it was a pleasant visit.
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David Hobday
2 June 2025
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A pleasure as always to see Tara wood
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Keith Ferguson profile picture
Keith Ferguson
9 May 2025
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Andre Bayliss
25 March 2025
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I have dealt with Ben for a few years, following the acquisition of my former IFAs business. Ben is realistic in his approach and tells it as it is. He has certainly helped bring a bit of stability to my pension pot... long may it continue. Not keen on the fees, but I guess you get what you pay for! 🙂
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James
6 March 2025
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Great service and advice from Maddie. She gets know you and gains a full understanding of your lifestyle and requirements before advising. Highly recommend her and I have several times!
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Mark Garland
16 October 2024
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Couldn’t recommend highly enough Ben has been a true gent not only is his knowledge and skills invaluable but he has a genuine interest in you and your family determined to do his level best for you .
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Robert Johnson profile picture
Robert Johnson
8 April 2024
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An outstanding Independent Financial Advisory Company, comprising of the highest calibre of friendly professionals, able to cater for all personal, financial scenarios. My wife and myself, first sought advice with CIFA Ltd, for Investment and Pension matters in 2013, and this has continued for the past seven years. Our IFA, Tara Wood, has shown such a high level of friendly professionalism , not encountered by myself with previous IFA's, coupled with great empathy for certain situations which have arisen. Her advice has always been flawlessly reliable, and, therefore, we would not hesitate to discuss any arising financial situation, no matter how difficult, with her! So different from previous IFA's which we have encountered! This is particularly true with regard to my wife discussing financial matters with Tara, who explains her reasoning in lay mens 'easy to understand' terminology. Indeed, we have recommended female friends to Tara for this very reason. So impressed were we with Tara's financial advice, that we, on her recommendation, sought to amend our 'Will', with CIFA Ltd. This was excellently facilitated, again, in a highly professional, friendly and empathetic manner by Andrew Mansion, who left 'no stone unturned' in the process. I would also like to mention the Administrative Department, under the guidance and management of Dawn Peacock, for its ultra-efficient and friendly professionalism exhibited during our dealings with CIFA Ltd. A truly fantastic IFA Outfit who, in addition to all the positives given, facilitate 'fast response' times, high quality, and offer excellent 'value for money'. We look forward to remaining with them, regarding our financial matters, for many years to come. Both my wife and myself, cannot recommend CIFA Ltd enough!
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Adrian Smith profile picture
Adrian Smith
30 March 2024
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Mark has always kept me informed of the status of my investments and has been of great assistance when I've needed advice on 'what to do next'. Also, he has always found time to chat about our shared interests whenever we meet up.
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Stephen Martindale
13 March 2024
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I couldn’t be happier with the service I’ve received with Cheltenham IFA. I was in desperate need for professional advice and proactive assistance in urgently setting up and transferring to a new pension provider. They went above and beyond and my new scheme is cheaper than my old one. I couldn’t speak more highly of them. Thank you for your help.
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LESLIE SEAL
9 March 2024
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Tara, my adviser gave me advice that i was not happy taking. She eventually convinced me to stick with it and I gave it 6 months. My fund has grown by over 10%. Thank you Tara. Great advice
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Steve profile picture
Steve
29 February 2024
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I recently contacted Cheltenham Independent Financial Advisers Ltd for financial planning advice. Despite my situation not matching their particular services, they were incredibly helpful, offering clear explanations and free advice, and were very friendly. While I'm not currently their typical target client, this positive experience has made me keen to reach out again as my financial needs grow. Highly recommend their professional and informative service.
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Shaun Drinkwater
14 February 2024
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Can highly recommend, received good helpful advice from Andrew
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Andrew Sexton profile picture
Andrew Sexton
30 January 2024
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Excellent service and very friendly. Madeleine has helped me with pensions and a plan so I could take early retirement 12 months ago highly recommended.
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Neil Parsonage
26 November 2021
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Very professional. Highly recommended
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Andrew Jessop profile picture
Andrew Jessop
7 October 2021
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Having been a client for a number of years I fully concur with other posted reviews and would have no hesitation in confirming my recommendation of Cheltenham IFA, who have been excellent in their help and advice in ALL aspects of financial planning, which are constructively reviewed annually with one-on-one appointments. First class!
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glynn ford
5 October 2021
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Open and honest professional advice..
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Angela Hands profile picture
Angela Hands
28 September 2021
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We have been customers of Andy Mansion for over 20 years, during which time we have always had excellent advice, informative information and forward thinking insight into trends. Because of Andys' excellent advice we were able to retire early and have so far had eight wonderful years. All staff we have dealings with within the Cheltenham IFA have always been helpful, professional and responsive. We would and do recommend the company to anyone looking for professional; efficient; caring and trustworthy advice. In these difficult times Cheltenham IFA have proved theselves again to be the very best.
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Robin Howe
7 September 2021
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I have been a client for many years and have always had brilliant service from Antony, Tara, and now Andy who I've only just met by video chat. They've all shown professionalism and attention to detail. Couldn't be happier.
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Jenny Cooper profile picture
Jenny Cooper
10 August 2021
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I have been a client since 2009 and received excellent advice on investment and pension planning as well as will writing and power of attorney. Initially with Christian and now with Andy..
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Joyce Matthews
1 March 2021
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Have been amazed by how well my investments have done in this challenging year. Have been with the firm for several years and would wholeheartedly recommend them. My adviser Ben Burgess is friendly, knowledgeable and gives good, clear, down-to-earth advice. Thank you so much.
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Veronica Stanley
24 February 2021
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Very happy with the results of my investments which have been handled well during this very uncertain time. Ben Burgess is extremely helpful and keeps me well informed of any potential changes. Cannot thank him enough for all his assistance with my investments.
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Jonathan Kassam
13 February 2021
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I’ve been with Cheltenham IFA 9+years. All staff have been helpful and knowledgeable whenever I contact. Yearly reviews with Tara have resulted in a healthy pension. Would highly recommend.
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David Owen profile picture
David Owen
26 January 2021
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First Class
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Kim Burbridge profile picture
Kim Burbridge
25 January 2021
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I have been with Cheltenham IFA Ltd for 12 months, and in that time my adviser Ben Burgess has been professional and supportive during a difficult 12 months. To say I am happy with how my money has been invested is an understatement. Long may it continue. Thank you Ben.
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Oliver G profile picture
Oliver G
24 January 2021
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Ben Burgess took time to review our financial situation and to come back with clear recommendations. He listened carefully to our questions and helped us implement a new approach. We are glad of his support, and that of Cheltenham Independent Financial Advisers.
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Monica Ralph profile picture
Monica Ralph
17 January 2021
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I feel very well supported by my financial advisor and feel confident that my interests are being well served.
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Geoff Lay profile picture
Geoff Lay
15 January 2021
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Tara Wood has been our Advisor since day 1. Always professional and always able to answer all our questions. Would we recommend Cheltenham I F A you bet we would. 100% reliable. Money safe and sound. Made my pension worth while. Great firm
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E Evers
15 January 2021
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I have been a client of Cheltenham IFA Ltd for several years. I have an excellent relationship with my adviser and have always been given clear information and guidance when requested. I am happy with my investments which have continued to grow throughout difficult times.
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Sue Roberts profile picture
Sue Roberts
15 January 2021
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I thoroughly recommend Cheltenham IFA Ltd. Ben Burgess has been our financial adviser for several years and during that time his advice and contact with us has been first class. Annual reviews have been clear, fully explained and unhurried. Portfolio growth has been consistent and dependable. He has taken the time to get to know us and understand our requirements. First Class Service.
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Nicola Metcalfe profile picture
Nicola Metcalfe
15 January 2021
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Cheltenham IFA have looked after my pension for almost 10 years, and I have always found them to be completely professional. They regularly contact you, there's never any pressure and everything is made clear and straightforward. A really reliable local company, can thoroughly recommend.
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Mike Pullan profile picture
Mike Pullan
15 January 2021
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Pension has been managed by Cheltenham IFA for 5 years. I’ve always found them communicative, professional and well-informed. Nice smooth year-on-year growth on my funds, regular contact to discuss performance and any recommended changes. What else can you ask for? Would highly recommend
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Nick Wilkie profile picture
Nick Wilkie
14 January 2021
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Despite an unprecedented set of circumstances with the pandemic, CIFA saw the situation out in a positive and reassured manner, resulting in a positive return on my investment.
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