Behind the Business: MBE Accountancy

Member Name and Business Overview
Meet Mathew Ellwood, the Managing Director of MBE Accountancy, a thriving accountancy firm based in the heart of Windermere, Cumbria. Established in 2015, MBE Accountancy offers a comprehensive range of accountancy services, including personal tax returns, full book keeping, corporate accounts, and tax planning. Catering to a diverse clientele—from individuals and local businesses to financial consultants in Canary Wharf and property investors in Brazil—the firm prides itself on delivering professional, reliable services with a friendly and approachable touch.
Mathew’s journey into accountancy began back in 2003, right after he left school. he landed his first job. Starting from ground zero, he worked his way up the ladder, completing all his exams in his own time. Over the years, he gained invaluable experience, working through a couple of company buyouts. Eventually, in 2015, he took a bold step by initiating a management buyout to establish MBE Accountancy.
Unique Selling Points and Expertise
What sets MBE Accountancy apart is its commitment to providing a bespoke, personalised service. With a tight-knit team of four—three of whom are Chartered Accountants—clients receive direct, engaged attention from highly qualified professionals. Mathew himself is not only a Chartered Certified Accountant but is also pursuing further qualifications as a Chartered Tax Adviser, reflecting his dedication to staying at the forefront of his field.
Mathew specialises in tax, an area where clients often need the most help, especially in a region dominated by the holiday industry. His passion for tax issues keeps him up-to-date with the latest developments, enabling him to provide significant tax savings for his clients. For instance, he once reduced a client’s tax bill from £18,000 to £3,000 by effectively liaising with HMRC and setting up a manageable repayment plan.
In his recent presentation, Mathew demonstrated his deep understanding of VAT, one of the top three revenue generators for the government. He explained the complexities of VAT rates, taxable supplies, and the importance of understanding the difference between exempt and outside-the-scope items. He also highlighted how businesses could navigate partial exemptions—a notoriously complicated area—to their advantage. His ability to simplify complex tax matters makes him an invaluable resource for businesses of all sizes.
The firm’s expertise isn’t limited to VAT. They are well-versed in capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and the nuances of tax relief options available to businesses and individuals. Their goal is to relieve clients of stress and financial burdens by providing expert advice and personalized solutions.
Community Involvement
MBE Accountancy is deeply rooted in the local community. Mathew serves on the board of directors for the Save Windermere campaign, working alongside environmental advocate Matt Stanier. The campaign focuses on combating pollution in Lake Windermere, particularly addressing the issue of sewage discharge from utility companies—a problem that affects waterways across the country. Mathew’s involvement stems from his personal connection to the lake and his desire to preserve its natural beauty for future generations.
By supporting the Save Windermere campaign, Mathew is not only contributing to the environmental well-being of the area but also showcasing his commitment to social responsibility. His active participation in community projects reflects the firm’s ethos of going beyond business to make a positive impact on society.
How to Connect
If you’re looking for a friendly, professional accountancy service that offers personalized solutions, MBE Accountancy is here to help. Whether you’re an individual needing assistance with a tax return or a business seeking comprehensive accounting services, the team is ready to go the extra mile for you.
- Website: www.mbeaccountancy.co.uk
- Email: info@mbeaccountancy.co.uk
- Phone: 015394 88561
- Address: 10 High Street, Windermere, Cumbria LA23 1AF
Feel free to reach out—the kettle is always on, and initial consultations are free. Mathew and his team believe that no job is too big or too small. They are driven to find the best solutions and are always ready to welcome new clients into their community.