NatWest has become the first bank to open an office in one of the county’s top science and technology parks.

It has opened a base in Discovery Park in Sandwich, were it aims to offer advice to more than 140 start-ups on the estate, plus its more established businesses.

Tim Boag, NatWest’s managing director for London & South East, said: “As home to so many exciting and creative businesses in the science and technology sector, we believe there’s a natural link between NatWest and the broad range of start-ups and larger businesses at Discovery Park.”

Lauren Moore, leasing executive at Discovery Park, said: “Having NatWest join us is great news for the site and a key element of our desire to introduce a wide range of services to support the 140+ businesses now based here – from funding advice to start-up support – all helping to further increase the site’s vibrancy and ongoing success.”