A HIGH street branch of Natwest is due to close today after a decline in use.

The banking giant revealed in December that it was going to shut its premises in Market Street, Westhoughton.

A spokesman for the business said it had taken the “hard decision to close the store” after a 29 per cent decline in the number of transactions since 2011.

He added: “The way people choose to bank with us has changed radically over the last few years.

“Between 2010 and 2015, mobile and online transactions have increased by over 400% and mobile transactions alone have increased by 1,350%.

“We know that not all of our customers are comfortable and familiar with using online or mobile banking, so we have created a new specialist taskforce of digital experts who will be dedicated to supporting our customers with training and support with digital skills.”

The nearest Natwesk to Westhoughton will now be Leigh, four miles away.

But branch users can also pay money in and take money out at Post Office’s within three miles of the branch and at the 10 ATMs within one mile.