RESIDENTS have show their anger after a town bank branch announced it would lose next year.

Barclays bank in Witham has announced it will close its doors in January.

The branch, which is based on Newland Street, will finally close on January 7 after it has seen a drop in customer numbers using over-the-counter services.

A Barclays says fewer than 100 customers use the branch exclusively for their banking.

It added in the past 12 months more than 25 per cent of its customers have been using nearby branches and 87 per cent of the branch’s customers also use other methods to bank, including online and by phone.

It comes during a national fall in in-person encounters with fewer than ten per cent of transactions now taking place inside a branch.

The closure of the branch means Barclays customers will need to journey to another branch to carry out face-to-face transactions.

The nearest available branch is in High Street, Maldon.

Everyday transactions can also be completed at the Post Office, with the closest on Newland Street in Witham.

A Barclays spokesman said: “The decision to close a branch is never an easy one.

“However, customers are increasingly using alternatives to branches to do their banking.

“As a result, we are seeing a sustained fall in branch visits across the UK.

“We will work with our customers and provide alternative options to ensure they can continue to manage their money and receive financial expertise when required.”

Reaction to the announcement of the bank’s closure has been strong with many residents feeling more should be done to save the branch.

Ann-Marie Read-Sheehan said: “This infuriates me. What a poor, poor excuse Barclays have used,

“For the past year and a half banks have been tricky to get into due to Covid, hence less footfall.

“Barclays have made this decision, along with other banks, continually pushing clients online.

“What about those who do not have online banking?”

Sarah Thorogood said: “Disgraceful. No regards for the elderly or anyone who cannot or doesn’t want to use the Internet.

“Another example of money over customer care."

Paul Stone said: “I feel for the elderly and local businesses that use them daily. I am a customer both personal and business but can survive with the Barclays app."

Dan Downes said: “How is it now convenient for me to travel to Braintree or Maldon for my business banking?

“The town is getting bigger but we are losing services.”

n What do you think? Email us at bwtnews@newsquest.co.uk.