Tourism bosses at Visit East Anglia have teamed up with Lloyds TSB to launch a new banking product for members.

The tie-up will offer seven months free business banking and preferential rates on credit card transactions.

Keith Brown, chief executive of Visit East Anglia (VEA), said: 'We are here to advise, support and empower tourism businesses, particularly in this challenging economic climate. The partnership with Lloyds TSB and the money saving deal we can offer is really attractive for businesses at this time and ensures we are a step ahead of the rest of the UK.'

Daniel Meston, Senior Business Development Manager for Lloyds TSB Commercial said the partnership would help add value for Visit East Anglia members.

'Businesses are always on the lookout to reduce costs and save time and we're keen to talk to any VEA member about how we can help them improve their efficiency through the services that we offer.

Martin Dupee, head of operations for Banham Zoo and VEA board member who hosted the launch of the new scheme, said: 'This is a really lucrative offer for tourism businesses in East Anglia. As a package, there are some great benefits, but the Lloyds TSB deal is particularly attractive.'