In Brief: Conn.-Based Banking Firm to Enter N.H.

New England Community Bancorp of Windsor, Conn., said this week it would acquire Olde Port Bank and Trust, Portsmouth, N.H., for $13.8 million in stock.

The agreement calls for $47 million-asset Olde Port to keep its name and charter. New England Community owns three banks in Connecticut.

"While this is our first venture outside Connecticut, our plan has always focused on opportunities throughout New England," said David A. Lentini, president and chief executive officer of New England Community. "We continue to look to build a strong family of community banks, and Olde Port fits our model for growth."

Michael E. Kenslea, president of Olde Port, said his bank will be able to offer more products under New England Community's umbrella.

"Our affiliation with New England Community Bancorp gives us the resources we need to meet the banking and financial service needs of our customers," he said.

The deal is expected to close by the end of the second quarter.

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