AS part of plans to increase the size of its local network of agricultural managers, Lloyds TSB has appointed Richard Watts as agricultural business manager for Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Mr Watts has worked for Lloyds TSB for over 31 years, including working in business banking in the last six years where he developed close links with key farming customers.

He will be working closely with farmers in the two counties and said: "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."

Greg Fowler, regional agricultural manager, said: "The expansion of our network only reaffirms the commitment of the group to the regional farming community."