Like many small businesses, before switching to Abbey's small business bank account, Andrew Mitcham wasted almost £300 in bank charges every year - despite the fact that he operates in credit.

An accredited engineer, Andrew's small business 'Mitcham Heating and Plumbing' solves domestic heating and plumbing problems in the Cheltenham region.

When he set up the business seventeen years ago, Andrew initially opened a business bank account with one of the large high street banks.

Andrew comments:

Looking back, I received very little support and understanding from my bank, especially in the crucial first few years. Banking charges were a major frustration, although individually small, they soon added up. Although I knew I was being charged - that much was evident from my statement - for a long time, I didn't know exactly what I was being charged for or the total amount. When I finally sat down and worked out exactly how much my bank had charged me over the years I was stunned. The whole experience, made me incredibly disenchanted with the high street banking system.

Twelve months ago, Andrew turned to the Abbey Business Bank Account, specifically designed for small businesses.

Businesses like mine have different banking needs and for the first time, I feel my individual needs are being considered. The business bank account offers free business banking indefinitely, which means I save up to £300 each year and in addition I receive interest on credit balances.

Since switching to Abbey, the levels of service have been a revelation, and the staff are personal and friendly. To be honest, with my last bank, I resented being told how to run my business by managers with no experience whatsoever of the plumbing market. Banking by post and phone is a definite bonus and suits my way of working, I often work all hours and never have time to get to the bank before it closes. Now I can do my banking whenever it suits me.

Ian Gardner, Abbey's business banking manager for the region says:

Small businesses like Andrew's play a key role in the local community. They need to be encouraged and given as much support as possible. Abbey's Business Banking Service was introduced as a direct response to people running such businesses - people who need a fair straightforward banking relationship. After all there are enough challenges in business without having to face added complications with business banking.