An easy-access savings account with the best rate in the market has been launched for customers visiting branches of a bank in the county.

The Best Buy Easy Access Account launched by Kent Reliance offers 1.5% interest, the top rate of any account of its kind in the UK, according to independent comparison site Moneyfacts.

It requires a minimum opening balance of £1,000 but features quick access to funds, allows additional deposits and has no minimum age.

It is only available in Kent and Sussex branches of the Chatham-based lender, whose parent company One Savings Bank launched on the London Stock Market in June.

Sales and marketing director John Eastgate said: “We’re delighted to offer savers in the region the best buy Easy Account currently available in the market today.

“We don’t believe in offering teaser or introduction rates. We wanted to provide a flexible and transparent Easy Access account with a competitive rate of interest.”

It comes a week after the company launched a new range of NISAs, including a two-year flexible fixed rate NISAs, with an annual gross interest of 2.1%.

The company also held a week of activities in support of charity Demelza, including a walk-to-work scheme, raffles and fancy dress.

A bake off including chief executive Andy Golding helped to raise a total of £2,413.62, half of which was money matched by the bank.

Mr Eastgate added: “We’re delighted with the effort and support shown by all the team at Kent Reliance for this special local charity.

“Many of our staff are from the local community so we are very aware of the remarkable work performed by Demelza’s hospices and with the help and support of the local community, they can continue to provide the best possible care for the children of Kent.”