Midland takes on the Footsie

MIDLAND Bank is offering a return of 110 per cent on any increase in the FT-SE Index to holders of its new five-year Guaranteed Capital Bond. The guarantee of a 110 per cent return - less a management charge of 5 per cent - is being made available until 28 May. If there is no rise in the index all investments will be returned in full. Minimum investment is pounds 5,000.

Birmingham Midshires is guaranteeing a net return of 115 per cent to investors in its five-year Equity Linked Savings Account. Minimum investment is pounds 2,500. Closing date for applications is 15 July. Applications received before 17 June get a 1 per cent bonus allocation.

Details from branches. Birmingham Midshires also operates a freephone between 8am and 8pm on 0800 501501.