SANTANDER'S announcement that it will close its Ramsbottom branch has been labelled "another blow to our town" by Bury North MP James Frith.

The decision, which will see the town go without a single high street bank branch when Santander closes in June, was described as a "disappointment" by the MP, who has now declared plans to bring together residents and businesses to discuss the impact the move will have on the area.

In a statement he also vowed to push the Post Office, which joined forces with the lender in 2015 to offer banking services for Santander customers, on speeding up development of a new branch and service concept.

Mr Frith said: “This is another blow to our town with the march of the bankers off our high streets. I will seek a meeting with Santander who have previously offered assurances on their commitment to Rammy and press them on this disappointing news.

“I know many small businesses and local residents were holding on to the fact that at least Santander still stood but to learn they’re off too will alarm a lot of customers as well as have an impact on passing trade.

“I’m pulling together a team of traders and residents to discuss this and will speak again to the Post Office about how they might speed up the development of their new branch and service concept that I’ve spoken to them about before.”

Last year Mr Frith also hit out at RBS, saying he was "furious" with its decision to close its Ramsbottom branch this month.