Colin,

I cannot comment on the benefits of an accountant as I am from the US and not familiar with UK financials.

You should have a business plan, if for nothing else, to provide direction as you get yourself up and running. It does not have to be extensive but thorough enough to help you with decision making.

I would also suggest that before you register your business name be sure that the domain you want for it is available and purchase it to reserve it. Nothing is worse than registering a name and then not being able to find a domain for it.

Best of luck to you.

__________________
Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant