Paragon Bank continues to support the agricultural sector, providing a funding package to enable the growth of a Lancashire-based family farm.

The farm, belonging to brothers Thomas and Ian Stafford and their father Thomas Stafford Snr, has been operating for over 63 years and focuses on contracting, combining and livestock. The most recent funding from Paragon’s SME Finance team has enabled the purchase of a New Holland CX9.90 STS Tracked Combine Harvester.

The new Combine Harvester is a much larger machine than the family previously operated and will enable the business to cover more ground at a quicker speed. This increased efficiency means that more land can worked.

Thomas Stafford said: “This new acquisition will enable our business to grow, so is an important purchase for us. We have dealt with Paragon’s Business Development Manager Ian Smith for almost ten years and have funded our last three combines with him. It’s easier for us to work with people we know, who also understand our business and tailor the payments to meet our seasonal requirements.

“Paragon is easy to deal with as they like to meet customers face-to-face, which is important to us, and the agricultural sector as a whole. We appreciate the direct contact we have with Ian. He sorts all the information he needs directly with our accountant, on our behalf and takes the hassle out of the situation for us.”

Ian Smith, Business Development Manager at Paragon, said: “I have worked with the Stafford brothers for many years. It’s fantastic to know that we are supporting the growth of not only a family-run business but also the growth of the agricultural sector during an uncertain time.

“Understanding the needs of the business, as well as the machinery invested in, enables us to make a real difference and build a strong relationship.”

The most recent purchase was made through Malpas Tractors (Wrexham) Limited, a New Holland dealership who Paragon also support on an ongoing basis.