THE loss of banks in Ilminster – and the denial of a banking hub for the town – were on the agenda at a meeting with MP Marcus Fysh (Con, Yeovil).

After meeting with members of Ilminster Town Council, the MP has vowed to write to both Lloyds and Link to express his disquiet about the closure of Lloyds Bank and the rejection of requests for a banking hub.

“He has promised to investigate the increasing problem of bank closures in the rural areas and is very much supportive of the need for a greater awareness of the needs of the community to cash and banking facilities,” an Ilminster Town Council spokesperson said.

Cllr Bill Revans, leader of Somerset Council, has also written to Link expressing his concerns and asked for a meeting with him, council officers, elected representatives and Ilminster Town Council.

The Silver Street branch of Lloyds, the last physcal banking premises in the town, is set to close in August.

READ MORE: Ilminster told it has ‘too few people’ for banking hub amid branch closures

In response, the town council launched a bid for a banking hub, where the main high street banks join forces to provide counter services, sharing costs and staffing.

However, it was denied, the council said, due to the low population of the area.

“The town council is looking at all the different ways that it can engage with Link in an effort to bring about a change in their decision so that the community does not lose access to the banking system in Ilminster,” the council spokesperson added.

Lloyds Bank, in Silver Street, Ilminster, is set to close in August. Picture: Google