Business banker Kathryn Harland spent a day working with one of her Bradford clients to get ‘first hand’ experience about their requirements.

She swapped her office at Barclays bank for the shop floor at Greengates Pet Store where she worked with Ben Salfarlie who runs his business at Newline, Greengates.

Kathryn’s duties included learning about the various exotic animals Ben stocks, such as snakes, bearded dragons and chameleons, along with more common pets like rabbits, birds, fish and rats.

Kathryn said: “Barclays is committed to supporting the local economy and I am committed to finding out more about my client’s businesses to help them achieve their ambitions.

“The more we know and learn about our customers the better, enabling us to provide the right levels of support and advice when required. This initiative is taking place up and down the country and is one of a range of measures to support our business banking customers to achieve their goals.”

Mr Salfarlie, said: “During these difficult times it is essential that you maintain close links with your bank and ensure they have a genuine understanding of your business. This initiative has been a great success and allows my bank to fully understand the issues I face on a day-to-day basis. After a day in the business Kathryn really has a grasp of how I operate and was fearless when it came to handling all the animals.”