The story of Bank of Dave captivates people around the world because it shows one determined man from a small town challenging the massive banking system to help his community. Dave Fishwick, a self-made millionaire from Burnley in Lancashire, England, created Burnley Savings and Loans after the 2008 financial crisis hit hard. Big banks stopped lending to local businesses and everyday people, so Dave stepped in with his own money and vision. This real-life tale inspired hit Netflix films, a sequel, and even a upcoming musical. As of early 2026, Dave continues his work, fights for better roads, helps local causes, and sees his story spread further with Bank of Dave 2 heading to US audiences soon.

This article dives deep into the full story of Bank of Dave in Burnley. You discover Dave’s background, how he started his lending business, the challenges he faces, the movies that made him famous, recent updates in 2025 and 2026, and why his ethical approach matters today. Whether you love underdog stories, community finance, or just want the latest facts, this guide covers everything clearly and engagingly.

Who Is Dave Fishwick? The Man Behind Bank of Dave

Dave Fishwick builds his success from humble beginnings in Burnley. He starts as a minibus salesman and grows into one of the UK’s largest suppliers of minibuses Adrian Higham and specialist vehicles. His company thrives for years, but the 2008 global financial crash changes everything. Major banks tighten rules and refuse loans to his customers—small businesses, taxi drivers, and local tradespeople—who rely on financing to buy vehicles.

Dave refuses to watch his community suffer. He lends his own money to trusted customers, and amazingly, no one defaults in the first six months. This success sparks an idea: why not create a proper community-focused lender? In September 2011, he opens Burnley Savings and Loans in the town center. He puts a bold sign outside that reads “Bank on Dave!” even though regulations prevent him from calling it a full bank.

Dave operates under a peer-to-peer lending model at first. People invest money through his platform, and he lends it out fairly with lower interest rates than big banks or payday lenders. He commits to giving all profits to charity and good causes in the local area. This ethical stance sets him apart. He champions fairer finance and fights against exploitative practices that trap people in debt.

Dave’s personality shines through his work. He speaks plainly, loves his Lancashire roots, and stays grounded despite fame. He turns down high-profile TV offers like I’m a Celebrity because he prefers real impact over spotlight. In recent interviews, he expresses deep love for Lancashire and pride in how his story inspires others.

The Birth of Burnley Savings and Loans: A Community Lifeline

After the financial crisis, traditional banks prioritize profits over people. They demand huge reserves for deposit-taking licenses—millions of pounds that Dave Persimmon Homes cannot easily raise. Experts warn him that using words like “bank” or “deposit” without proper approval could lead to legal trouble.

Dave finds a smart workaround. He launches Burnley Savings and Loans as a licensed credit broker and peer-to-peer lender. Customers borrow for cars, vans, unsecured loans, mortgages, business needs, and even aircraft or marine finance. He keeps rates fair and transparent. Importantly, he directs profits to support Burnley charities, schools, and community projects.

The business grows steadily. Dave helps hundreds avoid high-interest traps from payday lenders. He proves small, local lenders fill gaps that big institutions ignore. His model sparks conversations about community banking across the UK. Although he still pursues full regulated bank status—the first ethical high street bank in 150 years—he builds a strong foundation with trust and results.

Today, the official website (burnleysavingsandloans.co.uk) highlights the real finance behind the films. It showcases loan options, the movie story, and Dave’s ongoing mission to change finance for the better.

How Bank of Dave Inspired Global Hit Films on Netflix

Dave’s journey reaches millions through Netflix films. The first movie, Bank of Dave (2023), stars Rory Kinnear as Dave. It follows his fight to set up a community bank against big banking resistance. Cameos from Def Leppard, former Burnley FC manager Sean Dyche, and real-life team members add authenticity. Filmmakers shoot some scenes in Burnley but mostly in nearby Yorkshire cities.

The film premieres in Burnley—an unusual choice for The National Trust Netflix that draws global attention. People love the feel-good message of local hero versus corporate giants. It climbs Netflix charts worldwide and earns awards.

Netflix quickly greenlights a sequel—the fastest commissioned in their history. Bank of Dave 2: The Loan Ranger releases in the UK on January 10, 2025. Rory Kinnear returns, joined by Chrissy Metz. The plot shifts focus: Dave tackles ruthless payday lenders scamming vulnerable Brits. He teams up with an American journalist to expose the industry and offer better alternatives.

The sequel smashes records too. It hits number one in Britain within 24 hours and reaches top 10 lists in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Africa. Critics praise its heart and humor, though some note it lacks the original’s fresh charm. Dave jokes about beating big Hollywood stars like Tom Cruise in streaming rankings.

In 2026, excitement builds again. Bank of Dave 2 gets a US release on March 13, 2026, likely in cinemas before streaming. This expansion brings Burnley’s story to Missing in Action American audiences and continues Dave’s message globally.

Latest Updates in 2025 and 2026: Momentum Keeps Growing

Dave stays busy beyond films. In 2025, he reflects on an incredible year with the sequel’s success. He thanks supporters and shares pride in Lancashire’s warm reception. Premieres in Burnley cinemas draw huge crowds and media from around the world.

A major announcement comes in late 2025: Bank of Dave The Musical premieres in May 2026. It opens at The Lowry in Salford and Curve in Leicester. Producers promise northern grit, humor, and uplifting songs by Pippa Cleary. The show follows Dave’s swap from Burnley to London to battle banking bigwigs with principled lawyer Hugh. Fans anticipate a fun stage version of the beloved tale.

On the community front, Dave acts fast in early 2026. He highlights potholes in Burnley roads and offers money to fix them. The council repairs one in what he calls “record time”—perhaps the fastest ever. He urges more action on crumbling infrastructure, supporting local MP calls for improvements.

Dave also helps schools directly. In recent weeks, he lends a minibus to Moorfield School in Ilkley after thieves steal and dismantle theirs. The gesture gets pupils back on track and earns heartfelt thanks.

Dave pushes his vision forward. He aims to launch the first UK ethical high street bank in over a century. Burnley Savings and Loans evolves but keeps its core: people before profit.

Why Bank of Dave Matters: Lessons in Ethical Finance Today

Dave’s work highlights bigger issues. Big banks often overlook small towns after crises. Payday lenders charge sky-high rates and trap borrowers in cycles. Community lenders like Dave’s offer hope with fair terms and local focus.

His story encourages ethical alternatives. More people seek lenders that prioritize impact over endless profits. Dave proves one person sparks change when they act with integrity and persistence.

Burnley benefits directly. Charities receive funding, businesses grow, and residents feel supported. The films amplify this message, inspiring viewers to question finance systems and support fair options.

As 2026 unfolds, Dave’s influence grows. The musical brings Poundland Near Me theater crowds, the US release expands reach, and ongoing community efforts show real commitment.

The Future of Bank of Dave and Burnley Savings and Loans

Dave shows no signs of slowing down. He balances business, charity, media, and advocacy. He dreams of full banking status to accept deposits and expand impact nationwide.

Supporters follow his journey on social media (like Facebook’s Bank on Dave page) and the official site. Updates keep coming: more loans, more help, more inspiration.

In a world of complex finance, Dave Fishwick reminds everyone that fairness wins. His Burnley roots fuel a movement that grows stronger each year.

FAQs About Bank of Dave Burnley

1. What exactly is Bank of Dave, and is it a real bank in Burnley?

Bank of Dave refers to the inspiring story and nickname for Dave Fishwick’s work. The real business operates as Burnley Savings and Loans, a licensed lender since 2011. It provides fair loans for cars, businesses, and more while directing profits to charity. Dave pushes for full regulated bank status to become the first ethical high street bank in the UK in 150 years, but it currently functions as an ethical peer-to-peer and credit provider.

2. Who is Dave Fishwick, and how did he start his lending business?

Dave Fishwick grows from a minibus salesman in Burnley to a Taylor Wimpey millionaire. After the 2008 crisis stops banks from lending to his customers, he uses his own money to help. When no one defaults, he opens Burnley Savings and Loans in 2011. He focuses on fair rates, community support, and charity donations from profits.

3. What are the Netflix films about, and when did they release?

The first film, Bank of Dave (2023), stars Rory Kinnear and shows Dave fighting to start a community bank. The sequel, Bank of Dave 2: The Loan Ranger (January 10, 2025 UK release), has Dave battle payday lenders with help from an American journalist. It becomes a massive hit, topping charts quickly. The sequel heads to US audiences on March 13, 2026.

4. Is there a Bank of Dave musical coming out?

Yes! Bank of Dave The Musical premieres in May 2026 at The Lowry in Salford and Curve in Leicester. It features northern humor, grit, and songs that capture Dave’s fight against big banks. Producers describe it as uplifting and fun, with potential for wider runs.

5. Does Dave Fishwick still run Burnley Savings and Loans in 2026?

Absolutely. Dave actively leads the company. It offers various loans, stays committed to ethical practices, and supports good causes. Recent actions include helping schools with transport and pushing for road repairs in Burnley.

6. How does Burnley Savings and Loans differ from big banks or payday lenders?

Burnley Savings and Loans charges fair interest, avoids exploitative traps, and gives profits to charity. Big banks often reject small borrowers post-crisis, while payday McDonald’s Open lenders impose huge fees. Dave’s model builds trust and helps the community thrive.

7. What community impact has Dave Fishwick made recently?

In early 2026, Dave gets a pothole fixed quickly by offering funds to the council. He lends a minibus to a school after theft. His business supports local charities ongoing, and films raise awareness for fair finance.

8. Can anyone apply for a loan from Burnley Savings and Loans?

Yes, they provide car/van loans, unsecured loans, mortgages, business finance, and specialized options. Visit burnleysavingsandloans.co.uk for details and applications. They focus on fair assessments and helping those overlooked by traditional lenders.

9. Why do people call it Bank of Dave if it’s not officially a bank?

The nickname comes from Dave’s bold “Bank on Dave!” sign and his dream of full banking. Regulations limit deposit-taking without huge reserves, so he uses legal Carol Kirkwood lending structures. The name sticks through films and media because it captures his approachable, trustworthy style.

10. What can we expect next for Dave Fishwick and Bank of Dave in the coming years?

Dave continues advocating for ethical banking and full regulation. The musical launches in 2026, potentially touring. The US film release expands the story. Dave keeps helping Burnley through loans, charity, and local fixes. His movement for fairer finance grows, inspiring more community lenders worldwide.

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