CHIPPENHAM MP Michelle Donelan has invited constituents to get in touch to help save Melksham's Lloyds Bank branch from closure.

The high street banking giant announced last week that the branch is to close on February 15, along with a branch at Amesbury on February 28, blaming the declining visits by customers.

Miss Donelan said: "I am in contact with Lloyds about this awful news for Melksham.

"I am really disappointed by the decision and will do whatever I can to get the group to reverse the decision.

"Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you want to discuss."

Melksham's mayor, Cllr Jon Hubbard, has already written to Lloyds Bank's chief executive urging the group to reconsider.

Cllr Hubbard said: "The loss of the last of our major banks from the High Street in Melksham is a major blow for our town.

"I have written to Lloyds Bank PLC asking them to reconsider their plans, but I think we need to accept the reality it is unlikely that we will see a reversal in their position.

"We need to look forward now and think about ways that we can support our residents and local businesses in managing the impact of this decision and ensure we keep a vibrant town centre that continues to deliver for our community.

"I do celebrate the recent investment made in our community by the Coventry Building Society who refurbished their premises, and the continued presence in the town of Nationwide Building Society, whose longstanding commitment to keeping their branch open is greatly appreciated."

On Wednesday, Lloyds Bank announced it is to close 48 of its Lloyds and Halifax branches nationwide between January and April.

The group shut 56 branches between March and April, and 44 are closing between September and November.

To help save the branch, email michelle.donelan.mp@parliament.uk