June 20, 2009

Banks say they are supporting 'viable' businesses but there is evidence to the contrary,"They laughed at us when we said we wanted to increase our overdraft. They said, 'no, we want you to pay this back – we are looking to reduce the overdraft'."The laughter is still ringing in Anne Pinnington's ears. Of everyone that she and husband David Yates have called upon for help or advice since their business.

Hi-Mark, hit stormy waters late last year, only one, she says, has been difficult: the bank.Established by the couple in the 1970s, Hi-Mark, based in Wrexham, North Wales, makes specialised moulded plastic parts for the automotive industry.Midway through last year it employed 40 people, had an annual turnover approaching £3m and was posting profits so strong that Ms Pinnington anticipated clearing the group's £400,000 overdraft early this year.