NO wonder little Jessica Christison has been wearing a permanently surprised look.

The little girl could well be one of the youngest plastic-carrying bank account holders in the UK, after receiving an ATM card from her NatWest branch in Boscombe.

For just six weeks after little Jessica came into the world, she received an ATM bankcard for her Young Saver's account.

Unfortunately for her, the card expires in 2008 when she will be two-and-a-half years old, but she would not legally be able to use it until she is 16.

Concerned that his little one might show early signs of profligacy, Jessica's dad Nic contacted the bank to inform them that his daughter was not yet into the plastic age.

Mr Christison, who has five children, thought it would be provident to plan for his children's future by opening a bank account for all of them.

He said: "I set up bank accounts for all of my children for when they are older but was surprised when I opened Jessica's mail to find a Solo card. Perhaps the bank is trying to get her in to debt before she can walk.

"This is great from a dad's point of view, because I didn't know she was able to work her way round the ATM system."

He added: "I think it must have been a computer error at the branch in Boscombe."

Jessica's mother, Emma Christison, said: "I don't understand how it could have happened. My eldest child is the only one with a card but she was almost 16 when she received it.

"We contacted customer services who said to get in touch with her local branch. I think it's quite funny really."

A spokesman for Nat West said: "Unfortunately when the account was opened a keying error was made which led to the card being produced.

"This mistake has been corrected and Nat West apologises for any distress caused, and will be crediting her savings account with £10."

First published: May 20