Farmers Bankshares Inc. has reported unaudited earnings of 36 cents per share for the fourth quarter of 2015, about 21 percent more than the 30 cents per share earned during the fourth quarter of 2014.

Record earnings for the year amounted to $3,774,388 or $1.24 per share, up 12.3 percent from 2014.

Richard J. Holland Jr., chairman and chief executive officer of the Windsor-based bank, stated, “This progress in our earnings was reflected in our dividends to our shareholders, which also increased 50 percent over the prior year. Of equal importance, we have significantly improved asset quality, reduced the efficiency ratio and managed the balance sheet to ensure future growth.”

“Strategically, the board and management have set an aggressive course for the bank’s future,” Farmers President Vernon M. Towler stated in a press release.

“Our focuses include growing loans and non-interest deposits, managing expenses and increasing our mortgage business within our markets. Our focus on the insurance partnership with Manry Rawls will include organic growth, as well as, growth through acquisitions. We are also planning to expand our footprint with a loan production office in the Chesapeake area in the second quarter of 2016.”