Canara Bank opens branch in Leicester

has become the latest Indian bank to open a branch in the East Midlands town of Leicester, which has a large minority population of Indian origin.

The branch was inaugurated by A C Mahajan, the managing director of the bank. At the opening ceremony, he said, "This shows the importance of Leicestershire's diverse, multicultural and business achievements. We are here to make Leicestershire a leading commercial hub."

The leader of the Leicester City Council, Veejay Patel, who attended the opening last week, said, "As the ward councillor, I am very proud that the 'Golden Mile' continues to be an attractive proposition for investment," in a reference to the bank's location on the city's main commercial road.

"Clearly, the vibrancy of Belgrave Road is an important part of Leicester's international reputation. I would like to wish the bank every success," he added.

The honourary deputy president of the Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce, John Townsend, said he hoped it would encourage trading relations between the two countries.

Other Indian banks with branches in Leicester include Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank and ICICI.