The UK's Financial Services Compensation Scheme has declared independent financial advisor Bentley-Leek Financial Management in default and is set to award compensation to its clients over the next six months.

In November 2011, Bentley-Leek was placed into creditor’s voluntary liquidation following the collapse of its property venture which was backed by Bentley-Leek Properties Limited and Bentley-Leek Properties International.

The FSCS said it has now completed investigations into the firm and invited customers to come forward who had not yet made a claim.

The FSCS said it will start dealing with claims this month, in a process it expects to last six months.