THE Priestpopple branch of Barclays bank in Hexham was forced to close on Friday morning after a collapse in the building's ceiling.

The incident happened at around 10am.

Both staff and customers were understood to be in the branch at the time, but no one was hurt.

Customers have been advised to visit the Front Street branch in Prudhoe.

A spokesperson for Barclays said: "A structural engineer has been called out to assess the damage to the building and the cause of the incident.

"We are currently waiting on their report and right now are unfortunately unable to advice customers on when the branch is able to be reopened.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused."