Face-to-face banking hub to open in town

Link said it was looking for a location to open a banking hub that would provide a counter service

A banking hub designed to help people who need or prefer to manage their accounts in person is to be opened in Caterham.

The announcement from Link, the UK's cash access and cash machine network, comes after Lloyds Bank announced its intention to close its branch in the Surrey town, as part of 136 closures across the UK.

Link said it was looking for a location to open a banking hub that would provide a counter service along with consultation rooms.

When opened, the hub will consist of a counter service operated by Post Office employees, where customers of any bank can withdraw and deposit cash, make bill payments and carry out regular banking transactions.

Caterham is the third banking hub Link has recommended to open in Surrey, followng those in Dorking and Haslemere.

Dr Chris Ashton, chief commercial officer at Link, said: "While more people are choosing to bank and pay for things digitally, we know that many people still rely on and choose to use cash and face-to-face banking.

"There are over 100 hubs open across the country and when it opens, the Caterham banking hub will be vital for the local community and high street."