NewEnglandBancshareslogoEnfield’s New England Bancshares Inc., the holding company for New England Bank, reported net income of $849,000 for the quarter ended Sept. 30, up from $301,000 reported for same time period a year ago.

For the first half of the year, the company reported net income of $1.5 million, as compared to $120,000 for the same period last year, according to a statement.

The increases were primarily attributable to higher net interest income and higher noninterest income for the current year periods.

"The company’s core operating earnings has remained strong as evidenced by our increasing net interest income and strong net interest margin," said President and CEO David J. O’Connor. "However, economic uncertainty has slowed the growth in our loan portfolio, as loan demand by credit worthy borrowers continues to be low. The company’s focus continues to be increasing earnings per share and book value while serving the needs of our customers and the local community."