After reports emerged of TSB's plans to close several branches across the North East by the end of next year, including in Mannofield, I wrote to TSB to highlight the appalling impact that the closures will have for both staff and elderly residents, many of whom already feel secluded from the community due to a reduction in services and often have a limited ability to access online banking.   

Together with Keith Blackwood of Mannofield Parish Church and Keith Pirie of the Braeside and Mannofield Community Council, I recently met with a TSB representative who confirmed that plans were being actively considered for a new banking hub either at Mannofield Church or another suitable location where a mobile advisor can deliver face-to-face support for existing customers.

While I welcome TSB's efforts at looking at alternatives such as a hub, it must ensure that customers have access to the same services as before and employees are offered redeployment to branches in the North East and not hundreds of miles away.

TSB cannot leave people in the dark over where their future job or banking location lies, and I will continue to ask for regular updates on the situation as these moves near closer.

You can read more about the plans in the Evening Express.