A DEBT Adviser at a Yate charity has been named best newcomer in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Angus Macdonald of Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire based in Yate has been recognised by the Institute of Money Advisers (IMA) in its annual awards.

The award for “Newcomer of the Year” comes after Angus helped around 130 clients with debt problems since becoming a debt adviser last year.

He has helped clients with a combined £700,000 worth of debt - not including the clients he helps at a local prison.

He faced strong competition from other Debt Advisers in other parts of England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

(Image: Supplied) Money Advice Supervisor Yvonne Parks - who nominated him for the award - praised him for his “skilled and sensitive work” and also the “wisdom and knowledge” he brings from his previous career.

Angus was previously a manager in the IT industry.

He decided to switch to debt advice with Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire after joining the charity as a volunteer while on a sabbatical in 2022.

Angus was presented with the award - sponsored by the Money and Pensions Service - at the IMA Conference 2024 in Birmingham on Wednesday, June 12. 

This is the second year in a row an adviser from the charity’s debt team has been recognised in the IMA awards.

Last year, Yvonne was shortlisted for Money Adviser of the Year.

Angus said: “I'm so delighted to be recognised in this way. 

“The awards ceremony was a bit like the Oscars, complete with golden envelopes!

"I could not believe it when my name was announced as the first ever winner of the IMA Newcomer of the Year award.

“My first year in the role has given me enormous job satisfaction. It has been interesting, challenging and rewarding.

“Most of it was very new to me - it’s so good to have a second career and learn something new.

"It revitalises you.

“I’ve had a lot of support from the debt team and the charity and I am very grateful.

"I see this award as recognition for the whole charity, not just me.