A CIRENCESTER firm which has provided income protection for the UK for more than a century, is celebrating a milestone anniversary.

Cirencester Friendly, based in Dyer Street, was delighted to announce that 2015 marks the company's 125 year anniversary.

Celebrations will go on throughout the year, with the company even thinking about setting up their own charity.

Founded in 1890, Cirencester Friendly has won many industry awards including 'best income protection provider' and 'service beyond the call of duty''.

Staff have complied a list of other significant milestones around the UK which coincide with the 12 and a half decades Cirencester Friendly has been operating.

In the year the company was formed, the Cirencester Conservative Association Working Men's benefit society was formed. Around 12 years later came the death of Queen Victoria, and just 10 years after that came the sinking of the Titanic.

During the company's long life, it has also seen the beginning and end of both World Wars, the founding of the NHS in 1947, Margaret Thatcher elected as Prime Minister in 1979, and Prince William and Kate Middleton marrying in 2011.

Director of sales and marketing John Bridge said everyone at the firm was very proud of 125 years of success.

"2014 saw us reach a membership of more than 34,000 proving the value of product specialism that people want and prudent management of the business," he said.

“We are in a very strong position to build on the success we have achieved for members and supporting advisers."