AN HISTORIC building is being restored as an independent insurance broker prepares to move in.

AMB Insurance, which is currently based in Stone, is renovating its newly-purchased home at Woodland Avenue, Wolstanton, in preparation for the move later this year.

The company, which employs eight people, says the move will allow it to take on more staff and it is also planning to let some of the building to other local businesses, supporting start-ups and small firms looking to secure their first office.

Many of the original features of the Victorian building are intact, and famous past owners include the 19th-century architect Absalom Reade Wood, who designed a number of high-profile buildings such as Tunstall's Jubilee Buildings and Town Hall.

Managing director Claire Pigeon said: "The house was originally part of the Watlands Estate and James Wain is thought to have been the first named owner.

"The building was then sold to Mr Wood in 1878. After his death, and subsequent deaths of his wife and son, the building was bought by Staffordshire County Council – before being sold to us.

"A building like this one deserves to be looked after, and we are employing local tradespeople to restore it to its former grandeur. "It's great to be able to invest in the local community even before moving here, especially given the history of the house. Once ready, we'll be recruiting more staff and looking to let office space to new businesses in the area so that they can enjoy the light, features and history of this building too."

AMB is hoping to move into its new home next month.