A major bank has pledged to lend £3.6 billion to companies across the south east during 2019.

Lloyds Banking Group says the cash will be open to entrepreneurs looking to start a new business, through to large multinationals seeking further growth.

Among those benefitting last year was Broadstairs-based Kew Electrical which received a £16 million funding package to open two new branches.

Tara Foley, Lloyds Banking Group’s ambassador for the south east, said: “Access to finance is essential for businesses of all sizes in order to scale and thrive, particularly during this period of political and economic uncertainty.

"The south east is one of the UK’s most concentrated areas for economic activity and it’s essential that firms and organisations here have the necessary support to maintain growth.

“We’re lending up to £3.6bn to businesses across the south east and hope this financial support, along with our expert guidance, will help south east businesses to fuel their growth ambitions even further.”

It forms part of a £18bn nationwide funding pledge.