AN MP paid a visit to a high street bank to lend support to their fundraising campaign.

Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, went to Barclays in Rayleigh High Street to support their efforts to raise money for Children in Need.

Mr Francois had originally agreed to visit the branch to talk about the issue of support for small businesses.

During the meeting staff spoke about a number of start up businesses the branch has met during the year, as well as looking at how established businesses are coping in the challenging economic times.

While he was there, he also got involved with raising money for Children in Need which the bank were supporting by raffling a hamper of goodies.

He said: “Barclays have a very professional local team and I was interested to hear about the issues surrounding lending to businesses in Rayleigh and Wickford during this challenging economic time. It was great fun to join in with the Children in Need activities, for what is such an important cause. BBC Children in Need supports disadvantaged children and young people, right here in the Essex, but also across the country, and I am pleased to have been able to support their vital work this year.”