Harpenden Car Finance
Used Car Finance in Harpenden, Hertfordshire
GB Car Finance specialises in used car finance in and around Harpenden. We will work hard to help you obtain an approval decision, based on affordability, in minutes and drive away your new used car within 24 hours!
Car Finance Based On Affordability
If you need a loan to buy a used car then you have come to the right place - We could help to find car finance for you regardless of your current financial circumstances. We regularly help people with bad credit, even if they have been refused elsewhere. Simply complete the form opposite to apply.
Car Finance Harpenden
We are available to help people access car finance 247, 365 days a year - Whether you need an affordable family saloon, an economical hatchback, a large car or a people carrier we will work hard to help you find the right car for you. Apply online day or night, or speak with one of our friendly operators who will help guide you through the car finance application process and answer any questions you have.
“I was happy with the deal I got for my new car as I've struggled in the past to get the finance from any other company as I've had bad credit. They were very helpful on the phone and helped me choose my car - I was more than happy and would recommend GB Car Finance to anyone…”
All circumstances considered - CCJs, defaults, arrears, self employed, benefits, limited or no credit history, refused car finance elsewhere - Whatever your circumstances we'll look to help.
Used Car Finance in Hertfordshire
As well as Harpenden, GB Car Finance is pleased to assist people searching for car finance in Abbots Langley, Baldock, Barnet, Berkhamsted, Bishops Stortford, Borehamwood, Broxbourne, Buntingford, Bushey, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Hitchin, Hoddesdon, Kings Langley, Knebworth, Letchworth Garden City, Much Hadham, Potters Bar, Radlett, Rickmansworth, Royston, Sawbridgeworth, St Albans, Stevenage, Tring, Waltham Cross, Ware, Watford, Welwyn and Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire.
More information about Harpenden
The quaint English village of Harpenden is located in Hertfordshire, a county lying to the north of London and one of its many satellite towns. While it is not as well known as its larger and more recognisable neighbours such as St. Albans and Watford, this small community has a surprisingly long and varied connection to two key industries - the car industry and finance.
In addition to this, it is also has a strongly rooted motorsport culture, making Harpenden a hive of activity for those interested in automotive. This article will examine how this town of roughly 30,000 people has become a hub of these industries and a site of significant cultural importance.
Demographics
With a population of just under 30,000 as of 2019, Harpenden is relatively small compared to its neighbouring cities. The majority of its residents (86.7%) identify as White British, while 8.2% come from other ethnic backgrounds. In terms of the gender split, it is almost perfectly even with 51% female and 49% male. The town's population is generally quite old, with over a fifth (22%) aged between 55 to 64 and another quarter (24.3%) aged over 65.
Harpenden's economy is mostly driven by its residents, with most (33%) working in the finance and business sector, followed by those in retail and distribution (19.1%). The average household income is £34,058 which is slightly higher than the national average.
Car Industry in Harpenden
Harpenden has a long history of being connected to the car industry, stemming back to the early 1920s when Mr Arthur Day founded Harpenden Motors. The business specialised in producing body and trim components for a small selection of motor vehicles. It was a highly successful operation, producing parts for over 200 brands until its eventual closure in 1965 due to the onset of mass production.
Today, the town remains closely connected to the car industry in a number of ways. Perhaps the most prominent is Skoda, who have a large dealership located in the centre of Harpenden. The company first established itself in the town in the late 1950s and has served the area's residents ever since. They are considered one of the biggest employers in Harpenden, with an estimated 120 employees.
The town also has a thriving garages and repair business, led by a number of family-run operations. Businesses such as Harpenden Motors, TDK Tyres and Automotive, and AVM Autos have been part of the town for decades and are highly trusted by local motorists.
Harpenden's Finance Industry
Harpenden has long been seen as something of a financial hub, with a wide range of banking, investment and financial services offered. This history dates back to 1882 when the Harpenden Bank opened in the town. It had very close ties to the local business community, offering banking services to those in the area.
Today the town is still a hub of finance, with a host of national and international banks based in the town. This includes major institutions like HSBC, NatWest and Barclays, as well as smaller outfits like Celero, BCS and WealthCube. These banks provide a range of services, including savings accounts, mortgages, investments and more.
In addition to this, there is also a vibrant start-up community in the town. This is partially driven by the local business incubator in the centre of Harpenden, which provides incubation programmes for start-up companies and those already established in the finance industry.
Harpenden and Motorsport
Harpenden is also very closely associated with motorsport, especially with regards to track racing. The town is in a prime location for track racing, located within spitting distance of Silverstone, one of the world's most famous racing circuits.
Every year, the town also hosts its very own track racing event - the Harpenden Grand Prix. Established in 1977 and being held annually ever since, the grand prix is an integral part of the town's cultural heritage. This three day event draws motorcycle and car racers from all over the world, as well as a large number of spectators.
Other than the grand prix, there are also a few other motorsport events held in the town throughout the year. The most popular of these is the Harpenden Car Show, which sees classic and vintage car owners showcase their prized possessions. There's also the annual HRC Annual Show, a classic drag racing event.
Conclusion
For such a small town, Harpenden is incredibly lucky to have a wealth of resources and industries that are otherwise not available to other towns its size. The car industry, finance industry and motorsport culture all provide economic benefit for the town and make it a prime destination for both holidaymakers and businesspeople alike. Add to this the demographic make up and cultural heritage the town boasts, and it becomes quite clear why Harpenden is held in high regard not only locally, but throughout the entire UK.