HSBC, formerly Midland Bank, has established a South Asian banking team at its branch in Church Street, Blackburn.

The team, which covers the Blackburn and Bolton areas, is one of 12 established in key branches around the country devoted exclusively to the needs of South Asian businesses and professionals.

The Blackburn team, which is headed by John Simpson, was launched at a reception at Blackburn Rovers' ground hosted by Brian Robertson, the Bank's Northern Division General Manager.

Mr Simpson said: "Research shows that while South Asian businesses do not want preferential treatment they do want a bank that is South Asian friendly, proactive in meeting the needs of their businesses and has managers and staff who are culturally aware."

He added: "The other 11 units have been welcomed by the South Asian business communities they serve.

"We see the establishment of the Bolton and Blackburn unit as a natural progression and further evidence of the bank's commitment to the South Asian community in the UK."

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