BELLINGHAM residents had the first taste of mobile banking following the announcement that the Bellingham branch of Lloyds is to close.

Last week saw the first mobile bank park up in a spot opposite the current Lloyds branch, and people got a chance to try out the new facility before the branch closure on on March 15.

Paul Carey, manager for the Bellingham and Hexham branches, went along to the first mobile branch last Wednesday. He said: “A few of people wandered by and had a look in, so it’s good to let people know we’re doing this now.

“We have had great support from Bellingham Parish Council in setting up where it can go. It is very keen to make it a success and to make sure there’s some form of banking in Bellingham.”