A BANK has announced the decision to close its Ilminster branch as “most customers are now using our mobile app, internet banking”.

Lloyds Bank said it will no longer operate in Ilminster from August 14, 2024.

A spokesperson said: "75 per cent of our personal customers already use other ways of banking, such as mobile, internet or phone banking, as well as other branches.

"Branch transactions at the Ilminster branch fell more than 61 per cent between 2018 and 2023."

In a document published on its website, the bank also said: “Before we close any branch, we look at how our customers are managing their money and using the branch.

“Most customers are now using our mobile app, internet banking, or calling us instead, which means they are using branches, including the Ilminster branch much less.

“This means we'll be closing the Ilminster branch.”

The spokesperson added: "After the branch closes, we will have a Community Banker visit the area, who will continue to offer face-to-face targeted support for as long as the community needs it. 

"We will discuss with local communities which locations would be appropriate for our Community Banker to set up, and on which days."

After the closure, the nearest alternative branches to Ilminster are the one in Chard, on 27 Fore Street, and the one in Taunton, on 31 Fore Street.

The nearest free-to-use ATM, however, is nearby (0.09 miles), and there are free-to-use ATMs within a mile and a half of the closing branch.

Last year, NatWest Bank also closed its branch in Ilminster in May.

Serena Wootton, Green Party parliamentary candidate for Yeovil Constituency, said: “The news that the last bank standing in Ilminster is to close in the summer is a shock for many.

“Banks have traditionally been a cornerstone of all thriving towns which has allowed households and businesses to access their accounts, speak to staff, and get financial advice.

“While the banking sector is gradually moving towards a more technological form of operation there are still a huge number of people who do not do online banking and require access to their funds through the standard way.

“Other towns have suffered a similar fate with differing outcomes.

“Over in Axminster, a banking hub was set up to allow the market town to continue to prosper.

“This was the second to open in Devon and was established by Cash Access UK, an organisation set up to protect nationwide access to cash.

“It will be operated by the Post Office.

“Meanwhile, over in Glastonbury, the Nationwide Building Society stepped in to save the day.

“As there is presently a push by various groups to keep the public using cash in high street shops there will also be a need for traders to bank their takings.

“I hope that Ilminster Town Council has already set the wheels in motion and has approached Nationwide to discuss whether they are willing to move into Ilminster and reap the rewards of disgruntled account holders who will gladly move to them after being left in the lurch by Lloyds bank.”

Ilminster Town Council has been approached for comments.