Lloyds TSB said customers were changing how they banked

The move by Lloyds TSB is part of an announcement to close 19 branches across the South West and Wales.

The branches are to close in St Just, Gunnislake and Tintagel in Cornwall; and Bere Alston, Chudleigh, Princetown, Winkleigh and Buckfastleigh in Devon.

Lloyds TSB said it had taken the "difficult decision" because more people now used phone and internet banking instead of visiting branches.

They really don't care what happens to the customer Derek French, Campaign for Community Banking Services

Pressure group Campaign for Community Banking Services said the move was "not a total surprise, but it is a matter of clear concern".

Campaign director Derek French said the pressure group had suggested banks shared premises to keep overheads down but that they were not keen on the idea.

He said: "Banks consistently take the view that if they can't be in a community under their own brand, they really don't care what happens to the customer. They're just prepared to pull out."

Lloyds TSB said: "Unfortunately, as new technologies have allowed our customers to access banking services 24/7 over the internet and by telephone, usage of these branches has been declining over a number of years which is also symptomatic of changes taking place on high streets up and down the country."

The bank added that post offices would be able to offer services, including cash withdrawals, deposits and balance enquiries, because of their links with the bank.

However, some are concerned that not all customers' needs were considered in the bank's decision.

Political influence

St Just Mayor Sylvia Smith said: "It'll be inconvenient for a lot of people but I am very concerned about business. To keep a business going takes a lot of support and help.

"They cannot bank at the post office. For people here it may mean a daily trip into Penzance to bank money, and longer waits for cheques to clear."

Lloyds TSB said it was working hard to ensure disruption was kept to a minimum.

The Campaign for Community Banking Services said concerned customers should contact their MPs.