LLOYDS TSB is increasing the size of its local network of agricultural managers and as part of this expansion Richard Watts (pictured) has joined the team as agricultural business manager for Hereford-shire and Worcestershire.

Richard will be based at the Lloyds TSB agricultural office in Hereford, one of 34 offices throughout Britain. He brings a wealth of experience to the role having worked for Lloyds TSB for more than 31 years, including working in business banking for the last six years where he developed close links with key farming customers.

On a personal level Richard has lived and worked in Hereford for many years, has built up an excellent knowledge of the area and has good links with the local community. He is chairman of both the Hereford City Sports Club and the Hereford City Cricket Club.

"We all view the next few years as exciting and full of potential for the farming industry and I am delighted to be joining such a strong network," he said.

"Our aim is to be readily accessible to farmers in the region and provide a prompt and attentive service."

Greg Fowler, regional agricultural manager for Herefordshire and Worcestershire added: "We pride ourselves on offering a personal service to our local, rural customers. We now have a team of eight working locally and together they cover Herefordshire and Worcestershire. The expansion of our network only reaffirms the commitment of the Lloyds TSB group to the regional farming community."