THE ROYAL Bank of Scotland's branch at St Margaret's in Prestwich is set to close.

The branch, in Bury Old Road, is set to shut in the next few months, after bosses cited more people banking online as a major factor.

An RSB spokesman said: "We are committed to following the UK Government protocol on branch closures, and we have made the decision following careful consideration of a wide range of factors including branch usage and the alternative ways our customers can bank with us locally.

"Our customers are increasingly using alternative ways to bank with them such as online and mobile banking.

"As a result, branch transactions have decline, while online and mobile transactions have grown.

"We are writing to all of our customers who use the branch, as well as displaying posters in branch to let them know of the closure."

He added: "Between now and the closure date, we will engage with all of our customers, local businesses and the wider local community to make sure they are aware of the alternative ways of accessing their banking with us in the local area, and to answer any questions they might have."

Currently, the branch opens from 9.30am to 4.15pm on weekdays,

RBS customer Debbie Canovi, of Prestwich, said: “The staff have informed me that the bank will be closing its doors in August.

“This branch although small is very busy.

“If this branch is closed people, especially the elderly, will have to travel to find their nearest branch.

“This bank has been there for as long as I can remember.

“I know things change but not everybody has transport or does internet banking.

“There are many customers today up in arms but don't know who to contact.”

She said several customers may consider asking Bury South MP Ivan Lewis for help in trying to stop the branch from being closed.

Ms Canovi added: “It would just be yet another building left empty and open to vandalism, not to mention the jobs that will be lost if staff are made redundant or can't be relocated.”

The nearest RBS branch will be in Bury Old Road, Cheetham Hill.