Hampshire Trust Bank joins ASTL

The Central London-based lender offers commercial and property finance for SMEs and housebuilders and residential developers.

Benson Hersch, chief executive of the ASTL, said: “Increasing our membership is of great importance as we want the ASTL to be truly representative of the short-term lending market. However, it is not just about numbers, it is also about who those members are and what they can bring to the association.

"Hampshire Trust Bank puts the customers' needs at the forefront of its business, which mirrors the ASTL's ethos of honesty and integrity. I am sure it will be a great addition to our membership and we look forward to its active participation."

Hampshire Trust was acquired in May 2014 by a new management team with the backing of Alchemy Special Opportunities Fund II LP.

David Morris, managing director, commercial finance at Hampshire Trust Bank, added: “The ASTL's charter and Hampshire Trust's own values are very closely aligned.

“The association has helped to change the way the industry looks at the short term lending market in a positive way.

“As members we not only look forward to its support but also to being actively involved in taking the ASTL forward.”