Dave Fishwick, the entrepreneur behind Burnley Savings and Loans, often referred to as the 'Bank of Dave', is to be honoured with an OBE by His Majesty the King. The award recognises his dedicated service to business and to the community, particularly his efforts in establishing a local lending institution aimed at supporting individuals and small businesses often overlooked by high street banks.
Mr. Fishwick expressed his profound delight at the news, humorously remarking on his humble beginnings. "Not bad for a boy from Nelson who once worked as a builder's labourer, draining rain out of his boot holes!" he stated, underscoring his journey from manual labour to receiving royal recognition. His story of creating a community bank in Burnley, offering a more personal and accessible alternative to traditional financial services, captured the nation's attention through a Channel 4 documentary series and a subsequent Netflix film.
Burnley Savings and Loans was founded with the principle of returning profits to the community and supporting local enterprise. Unlike mainstream banks, it focuses on lending to individuals and businesses within its local area, often those who struggle to secure funding elsewhere. This model has been praised for its social impact, fostering local economic growth and providing crucial financial lifelines to many.
The announcement of Mr. Fishwick's OBE comes as a testament to the growing recognition of community-focused initiatives within the UK's financial landscape. It highlights the value placed on entrepreneurs who not only build successful businesses but also embed social responsibility and local support into their core operations. His work has often been cited as an example of how smaller, regionally focused financial institutions can play a vital role in strengthening local economies and fostering a sense of community.
This honour reflects a broader appreciation for individuals who champion financial inclusion and provide practical solutions to everyday banking challenges faced by many UK citizens. Mr. Fishwick's achievement will likely inspire others to consider innovative approaches to local economic development and community service across the country.