Interest rates may remain low but your savings rates don't have to

Following the announcement that the Bank of England base rate will remain at just 0.50 per cent, Santander's UK savings businesses this week encourage savers to make sure they're getting the best out of their savings accounts.

Abbey, Alliance & Leicester and Bradford & Bingley Savings offer savers a selection of base rate beating accounts, including new issues of our Fixed Rate Savings Bonds and Fixed Rate Monthly Saver. The Fixed Rate Savings Bonds offer up to 4.15 per cent AER fixed for up to two years. Rates are tiered, starting from just £1, with a monthly income option available for those looking for income from their savings.

Fixed Rate Monthly Saver pays a competitive 4.00% fixed for 12 months provided no withdrawals are made and savers deposit between £20 and £250 per month by standing order.

Reza Attar-Zadeh, Director of Savings and Investments, said: "In a low interest rate environment, it's important for savers to ensure that they earn a good return on their money. In the current climate, fixed rate bonds continue to prove popular and with rates of over 4 per cent available, well above the current Bank of England base rate, it's easy to see why.

"We are committed to offering competitive savings accounts to help people save and plan for their future. With the backing of Santander, one of the world's largest banks, savers have peace of mind and confidence when saving with us."

Customers can apply for the bonds either by visiting any local branch of Abbey, Alliance & Leicester and Bradford & Bingley, by visiting abbey.com and bradford-bingley.co.uk. These fixed rate accounts are available for a limited time only and can be withdrawn without notice, so we would encourage people to open one without delay.