AFTER decades in the town centre, Hexham's NatWest branch is preparing to close its doors.

Despite surviving a gas explosion in 1982, the Battle Hill bank will close down on July 4 next year.

The shock announcement comes as four other NatWest branches are earmarked for closure across the North-East.

Describing the move as a 'difficult decision,' NatWest say customers banking habits have changed radically over the last few years.

Because of this, transactions at the Hexham branch have declined by 36 per cent since 2011.

And nearly 60 per cent of the branch customers have chosen to use online and mobile banking services.

NatWest is now contacting customers across Tynedale, whose nearest branch is now Denton park in Newcastle, over 18 miles away.

The fate of the branch's staff is not yet known, however a NatWest spokesman said that the bank was ensuring compulsory redundancies are kept to a minimum.

The bank says it has extended the time between the announcement and branch closure to ensure customers have time to consider their banking options.

And NatWest say a range of alternative ways to bank have been provided.

A new 'community banker' will be available to serve the local area and give personal assistance.

Customers can also check balances, withdraw and deposit money at Post Office branches.

And a new task-force of 'digital experts' will work to support customers in using online and mobile banking.

For a full report, pick up this week's edition of the Hexham Courant.