January 2, 2006-Florence SC-First Reliance Bank announces today that it has promoted Jess Nance to the position of Chief Credit Officer. Mr. Nance joined the bank in 2004 as Senior Vice President, Credit Support Services. Rick Saunders, CEO and President noted, "Jess came into our organization and has made an immediate impact. With the dynamic growth we have experienced, it is invaluable to have someone with the talent and skills of Jess. His knowledge of all aspects of banking has allowed him to extend his influence beyond his credit duties. We are fortunate to have him on our team." Mr. Nance's responsibilities include overseeing credit administration, loan review and all aspects of the credit portfolio. Mr. Nance also serves as Chairman of the Management Loan Committee, which is charged with overall responsibility of the bank's loan portfolio. He has also served on the boards of the Florence Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Development Center, the Independent Bankers of South Carolina, and the Florence Regional Arts Alliance.

Mr. Nance is a graduate of the University of South Carolina where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. He is also a graduate of The Graduate School of Banking of the South at LSU.

About First Reliance Bank: First Reliance Bank was founded in 1999 and has assets of over $400 million. The bank serves the midlands, low country and Pee Dee regions of South Carolina. The bank has been recognized for its success including being the only bank ever to be named to The Top 25 Fastest Growing Companies™ in South Carolina three times including 2005 (ElliottDavis.) First Reliance Bank operates in five locations with Totally Free Checking, Totally Free Business, free coin machines, $500 Service Promises and 8-8 Extended Hours in their Florence location. Their There's More to Banking Than Money™ and Easy To Do Business With™ standards have earned the young bank a customer satisfaction rating of 94% (Performance Solutions-November 2005-Audited.) First Reliance Bank is traded as FSRL.OB. For further information, please contact Helen O'Loughlin, Media Relations at 843-674-3029 or visit www.firstreliance.com.