A DECISION to remove an all hours cash machine in a Tynedale town has been criticised by residents.

One of the Haltwhistle’s only cash machines, outside the Post Office on Main Street, was removed on Tuesday despite objections from the shop owner.

Philip Johnson, who owns the town’s facility, informed customers of the removal on Monday.

He said: “The decision was totally out of our control and has been made by Post Office Ltd without consultation.

“We have tried to get the decision reversed, and also tried to find an alternative provider to take it over.”

Towns and villages throughout the Tyne Valley have suffered from recent bank closures, reducing access to cash machines.

While there is a ATM within the Co-op, on Main Street, there is no local access to cash outside of the store’s opening hours. Only two 24/7 cash machines are available in the town at Barclays Bank, on Westgate, and Sainsbury’s, at Fair Hill.

Chairman of Haltwhistle Town Council, Coun. Alan Sharp, criticised the removal.

He said: “The Post Office have not contacted anyone over any consultation. To just take it away is very disappointing.

“The cash machine was really well used and in a good location.

“It is disappointing and sad that the Post Office have made the decision to close it.”

Reacting to the news, resident, Paul Hulme said: “Annoyed beyond belief as local people from the town and villages in the area depended on that as well as the tourists.”

Free cash withdrawals are available from inside the Post Office during opening hours for most banks, except the Cumberland Building Society. The Post Office said affected postmasters are informed "as many weeks as possible in advance."