Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, recently paid a visit to the Rayleigh branch of Barclays bank on Rayleigh High Street, and also to lend support to their campaign to raise money for Children in Need.
Mark had originally agreed to visit the branch to talk about the issue of support for small businesses, with the branch manager and Senior Barclays’ Executives. During the meeting staff were able to outline a number of start up businesses the branch has met with during the year, as well as looking at how established businesses are faring in these challenging economic times.
Whilst visiting the branch, Mark also took the time to get involved with the Bank’s campaign to raise money for ‘Pudsey Bear’ and Children in Need, which the bank were supporting by raffling a hamper of goodies, assisted by both staff and customers.
Commenting on the visit, Mark said:
“Barclays have a very professional local team and I was interested to hear about the issues surrounding lending to businesses in Rayleigh and Wickford during this challenging economic time. It was great fun to join in with the Children in Need activities, for what is such an important cause. BBC Children in Need supports disadvantaged children and young people, right here in the Essex, but also across the country, and I am pleased to have been able to support their vital work this year.”