THE last bank serving the people of Corsham will be closing its doors for the final time in the autumn much to the dismay of local residents and businesses.

Despite months of campaigning, those living and working in Corsham will go without a physical banking service after Lloyds Bank announced last week that the town's branch would be among 100 other branches to close in October.

The closure has sparked outrage in the community as businesses will no longer be able to make cash deposits at the end of a working day and elderly residents will be forced to travel to Chippenham if they wish to use a branch.

"It is very problematic not only for people who live and shop here but also for the businesses because we cannot place deposits online," Nicola White, who runs Previous Homewares on the High Street, said. "The idea of having to travel up to Chippenham during rush hour after closing up shop is quite simply untenable.

"I have been with Lloyds for 40 years but since there is no advantage for me staying with them, I might as well go to the bank that offers me the best deal. It is going to make life rather difficult and it is a shame because Corsham is such a beautiful place."

Corsham MP Michelle Donelan has also voiced her disappointment about the closure after the bank assured her that they would not be closing last October. She said: The closure of Lloyds Bank in Corsham is a blow for the High Street and for local residents but I am confident that Corsham will continue to thrive. Only last week I was there opening a new shop on the High Street.

"I certainly sympathise with local businesses and residents as I know how important town centre banks are for local communities.

"When I spoke with Lloyds Bank, I stressed that it was essential that they wrote to all affected customers and that their managers engaged with local businesses and the community to ensure that they know what alternative arrangements are in place for them. I also sought reassurance that the staff employed would be redeployed in other branches if they wish to be."

Following their announcement on Wednesday, Lloyds Bank confirmed the branch would be closing on October 3, due to the changing ways customers interact with their services.

A spokesperson said: “We have made the difficult decision to close the branch due to the changing ways customers choose to bank with us, which has resulted in customers using them less often. We apologise for any inconvenience that this may cause and have informed customers of the closest alternative branches."