KENBRIDGE — Benchmark Bankshares, Inc., the Kenbridge-based hold-ing company for Benchmark Community Bank, has announced the declaration of a semi-annual dividend of 19 cents per share to holders of common stock of the company.

“This dividend, up from the 18 cents per share paid in July, brings total dividends for the year to 37-cents per share, representing an increase of 8.8 percent over the 34-cent per share paid in 2014,” a company release stated.

“The record date for shareholders entitled to payment of the dividend will be the close of business, 5 p.m., on Jan. 8, with payment to occur by Jan 29,” the release stated.