West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has welcomed a further commitment to the long-term future of the cashpoint machine in Upton-upon-Severn.

The MP has worked closely with Lloyds Bank to ensure that the town will keep its free-to-use ATM after the branch was closed in 2018.

The bank committed to providing a regular mobile service in the town and agreed to preserving the cashpoint in the centre of the town.

Lloyds has now handed the operation of the machine to a third-party supplier but the bank has secured a long-term commitment to preserve the service now that the former branch has been sold.

A brand-new cash machine has been installed, operated by NoteMachine, and Harriett visited the town last week to see both the mobile branch and the new ATM.

Harriett commented: “I have kept a close eye on this issue after Lloyds decided to shut down the last bank in town a couple of years ago.

“Although this was a disappointing development, I have been pleased that the post office was able to take up some of the extra banking business and the mobile branch continues to service local customers from the rugby club car park.

“Local people stressed to me how important it was to preserve the cashpoint machine and I have received further reassurances form the bank that this will be preserved.

“It’s also great to see Upton open for business and buzzing with shoppers and tourists. I hope more people will be encouraged to enjoy summer safely as shops, pubs and restaurants all return to welcoming their customers back.”