NATWEST has announced it is to close its Bowness-on-Windermere branch in the new year.

The banking giant blames a 23 per cent fall in transactions at the branch over recent years as more customers use internet and telephone banking.

The decision follows Barclays announcement that it will close its Ambleside branch on December 5 because of a similar fall in transactions.

NatWest said the Windermere branch just over a mile away would remain open after the Bowness closure on January 5.

A spokesman said: "We do understand that some of our customers do not use the internet or mobile phone app and prefer to be served over-the-counter. As a result we have come to an agreement with the local post office, which is close to the branch, so that customers can withdraw cash, check balances, and make deposits free of charge. In the coming months businesses will be able to get coinage."

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron said: “This is bad news for Bowness, especially for residents and businesses within the village. I am asking Natwest to give clarity to the staff about their futures and I will be asking if they plan to offer extended hours in their other branch in Windermere. It is vital that people have a service they need, when they need it.”