First Direct is a brilliant bank.

I moved to the UK when I was 32. From the moment I arrived I heard horror stories from other expats about the difficulties they had setting up bank accounts. With no prior address, utility bill, or credit history they were often laughed right out of high street banks.

I spotted ads for First Direct at the time that were promoting them as the UK’s first “virtual” bank, with all interactions processed online, by phone, or by post. With nothing to lose, I applied for a current account online.

They immediately gave me one. They set me up quickly and professionally with no fuss at all. They asked me if I wanted a credit card and gave me a generous limit.

I continue to be with First Direct, 7 years and counting, and have always found them to be excellent. If you ring them you get a human being right away, and after answering a couple of security questions they’re happy to help you. They keep a close watch on my account and card activities and always ring up if they see anything suspicious.

Their web site is easy to use and comprehensive. I’ve used it for credit card limit increases, savings accounts, foreign currency, and several foreign transfers.

First Direct are a subsidiary of HSBC, so if you do need to go into a branch to speak to someone or make a deposit you can do it at any HSBC branch.

First Direct had an ad campaign a couple of years ago saying they were the UK’s most recommended bank. Everyone I know that uses them feels the same as I do. They’re tops.