GB Car Finance specialises in used car finance in and around Bathgate. 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!
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.
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.
As well as Bathgate, GB Car Finance is pleased to assist people searching for car finance in Broxburn, Linlithgow, Livingston, South Queensferry, West Calder and Whitburn in West Lothian.
Bathgate — A Unique British Town With a Diverse History
Located only 20 miles from Scotland's most vibrant city of Edinburgh, Bathgate is an ancient parish and small town in the West Lothian district of Scotland. With a population of just over 15,000, Bathgate is an important hub of activity within the populous landscapes of Scotland, offering its residents easy access to nearby areas while still having plenty of its own attractions to offer. Its connections to multiple industries — namely, the automotive, finance, and motorsport — make it a fascinating topic to explore, and it is worth taking the time to appreciate its varied and remarkable history.
The Automotive Industry in Bathgate
The car industry has a strong presence in Bathgate, beginning with the establishment of Andrew Muir & Co in the area in 1867. The company dealt in horse-drawn vehicles, and by the early years of the 20th century had begun producing the first pioneering cars in the area. With a focus on design and quality, the business went from strength to strength and soon became one of Scotland's premier car manufacturers.
The company changed its name to the Argyll Car Works and during this time developed a range of models from 17 to 25 hp cars, including the X-type 20, the car which made Argyll famous in the period. It was the first car ever produced with a mounted spare wheel, making it practical for long-distance journeys — something much appreciated by the aristocrats and customers who decided to opt for the Argyll name.
In 1910, the company was purchased by the Delage company, and production was moved to Coventry. Today, the factory still stands in Bathgate, albeit serving a commercial purpose rather than a vehicle construction one, but the building's long history as an automotive manufacturing facility continues to remain an integral part of Bathgate's story.
The Financial Industries in Bathgate
Bathgate is also a major hub for the financial sector in Scotland, with a strong presence of banking and finance companies throughout the area. One of the most notable is the Royal Bank of Scotland, whose in-house technology centre is based in the town and is currently responsible for over one million customer accounts across the UK and Europe.
The bank's presence in Bathgate dates back to 1965 when the original branch was built in the town centre on West Port Street. Since then, the branch and its team have provided a secure and welcoming environment for customers to manage their finances, helping Bathgate to become a major financial centre in the region.
Additionally, Bathgate is home to the Barclays Bank, who first opened a branch in the town in 1967. Their branch, located on High Street, provides customers with access to regular banking services and a range of branch-specific activities including corporate and small business banking services, and many more financial options.
Motorsport in Bathgate
Aside from its automotive and finance sectors, Bathgate is also notable for its contributions to the world of motorsport. Located near to the Grampian Mountains, the town is a popular weekend destination for off-road enthusiasts and motorsport fans, with the many muddy tracks winding through the area proving to be the perfect playground for adventurous drivers.
Codenamed #projectLTW, the town hosted round 4 of the British Enduro Rally in 2015, an endurance rally-style event that required competitors to complete a course made up of a series of off-road stages across Scotland, England, and Wales. The event was hosted in Bathgate to provide competitors with a unique and thrilling experience — one that included testing their mettle on the muddy terrain and navigating a series of obstacles that proved to be a real challenge for all those who took part.
Demographic Details
The population of Bathgate is 15,336, with a gender split of 51% female and 49% male. The mean age of the population is 37.9, with a majority of working age adults from 18 to 65. The median household income is £31,300, signifying a slight rise in recent years, though the town still faces economic hardships along with other parts of West Lothian district.
Conclusion
Bathgate's history is an interesting and diverse one, encompassing contributions to the car industry, finance sector, and motorsport. It is a vibrant town with plenty of attractions to offer, providing locals and visitors alike with easy access to nearby areas such as Edinburgh and the Grampian Mountains. With its distinct character and unique blend of industries, it is no wonder that Bathgate is held in high regard by many.