‘Loss of town’s last bank would cause big problem for elderly people without internet’

Lloyds Bank bosses have confirmed they have ‘no immediate plans’ to close the Ottery St Mary branch.

Concerns about the future of the town’s last remaining bank were raised by many organisations, residents and businesses owners after the company announced its intention to shut 200 of its premises nationwide.

County councillor Claire Wright led a campaign to lobby the chief executive of Lloyds Bank and appeal for the Ottery branch to remain.

In response, a Lloyds Bank spokesperson said: “We have no immediate plans to close the Ottery St Mary branch.

“Our branch review is ongoing and we continue to work through the process of identifying any branches that may close. As and when any decisions are made, our colleagues and customers will be the first to know.”

Writing on her blog, Cllr Wright said: “It’s fantastic news that the bank is safe - at least for now.

“It isn’t clear of course whether our letters made a difference but I would like to thank everyone who took the time to write in. Lloyds is the only bank left standing in the town and its loss would cause a big problem for elderly people without internet and probably a drop in the number of shoppers.

“I really hope that the bank will stay open permanently and we have to be alert for future news of further branch closures and act quickly.”