A BROMSGROVE financial adviser who delivers expert advice while wearing a chicken hat on his head says the novel idea has helped him become a national champion.

Self-employed John Clapham uses the prop, complete with an extensive array of bird puns, to ensure his customers are kept at ease when making tricky financial decisions.

And he has now credited his egg-cellent idea to his recent success at the Best of Business Awards 2017, where he was named as the ‘financial services winner’.

Mr Clapham, who works under Stoke Prior firm AFH Wealth Management, said: “I’m happy to have won, but more than that is what I’ve managed to do for clients.

“Many people feel intimidated when dealing with someone in financial services, as the terminology and processes can sound scary. This is where props come in.

“I pop on the roast chicken hat and use phrases and puns like - do you chicken out from taking financial advice? I can help you to achieve a healthy nest egg and look at some tax saving nuggets too.

“Things like this really help, as the humour breaks the ice and creates an environment where people feel comfortable to ask lots of questions.

“I also use a flaming wallet prop to demonstrate how to protect your assets when the unexpected happens, as few of us have money to burn.

“This may sound like a strange approach to some in the financial services world, but it works, and helps me to deliver good customer service and my client’s experience is much more valuable.”

The awards, which recognise businesses for their hard work and customer service, are handed out by the number of good customer reviews companies receive.

John and five other award winners in different categories from Bromsgrove will receive a trophy and certificate at a presentation event held in the town on March 9.