West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has welcomed a commitment to keep a bank branch open in Pershore until a permanent replacement can be found a home.

Lloyds is closing its branch in the town but managers have insisted that the bank will not shut up shop until a permanent ‘banking hub’ is opened in Pershore town centre.

Harriett met with local bank managers to discuss the impact that the branch closure will have on local people and businesses.

The Lloyds closure will mean that the town will now be left without a high street bank, triggering a national initiative to create a banking hub – where each major bank will be represented allowing customers to carry out basic transactions.

Harriett said:

“I’ve already expressed my deep dissatisfaction at the closure, and I fear it is short sighted. Pershore is thriving with plenty of new shops on the high street and Aldi investing £5 million in a new store.

“I visited the bank’s local management on a Friday morning when there were queues at the cashpoint and staff working hard inside to help customers do their banking. I am hopeful, that even at this stage, the bank will look at the unfavourable coverage and rethink their decision.

“Nevertheless for most of us, the way we bank is moving online so I welcome the commitment to keep the branch open until a workable ‘hub’ solution is in place.

“Some people rely on their physical bank and hard-working staff – especially elderly and vulnerable customers – and they should not be sacrificed because the high street banks want to turn an even larger profit.

“I will be working closely with the team delivering a new hub to try and unblock any obstacles, but I am relieved that Lloyds has committed to doing the right thing and keeping a presence in Pershore until the hub is open.”