SAVINGS account customers at a Darlington town centre bank were temporarily unable to withdraw their funds on Wednesday morning, after what staff described as a 'security risk'.

The exact nature of the risk that affected the branch of Nationwide, in Bondgate, remains unclear.

It is understood customers with current accounts were able to withdraw cash using ATMs, but counter services are unavailable at present.

It is also understood that the risk only affected this branch.

 

A Nationwide spokesman said the branch counters had now re-opened as normal.

One customer, who wanted to make a withdrawal from her savings account for some last-minute Christmas shopping, said: "I went into the branch and all the shutters were down at the service counters.

"I was told that there was a security risk and they couldn't give me my money.

"It's not ideal this close to Christmas, but in a way I am grateful that the bank obviously takes security so seriously.

"Better safe than sorry."

A notice in the branch window during the morning said: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are unable to offer a counter service today.

"Self-service machines are operating as normal and staff are on hand to assist.

"Customers operating passbooks will still be able to access surrounding branches as normal (Stockton, Middlesbrough, Durham and Thirsk).

"We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience and are working on getting this issue resolved as soon as possible."