A NEW banking team aimed at Asian business has been set up in East Lancashire.

HSBC, formerly Midland Bank, has launched a South Asian banking section at its Church Street, Blackburn branch.

"Research shows that while South Asian businesses do not want preferential treatment they do want a bank that meets the needs of their business and has managers and staff who are culturally aware," said John Simpson, who heads up the new team.

A launch party was held at Ewood Park to mark the opening of the new department.

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