An independent lender to small and medium-sized businesses has opened a new office in the county.

Ultimate Finance has hired eight staff at its site in Turkey Mill, Maidstone, which adds to its locations in seven other towns and cities nationally.

The firm, backed by Bahamas-based private investment organization the Tavistock Group, created the South East team after increasing lending by 34% in the last year.

Senior regional director Simon Adcock said: “The company has experienced unprecedented success recently and we’re delighted to open a new office to support businesses in the South East.

“We’re looking forward to meeting many new businesses in the area and helping them to manage their cashflow demands and achieve their ambitions.”

Chief executive Ron Robson added: “In a climate of uncertainty, we are committed to working with, and for, our customers.

“Knowing we are achieving this is giving everyone a sense of real pride that they are backing Britain’s small businesses in a genuine way, every single day.”