AN MP has urged a bank to reconsider its decision to leave a town centre.

Jenny Chapman, MP for Darlington, has written to the area leader of the Co-Op bank urging them to alter plans to close their Darlington branch,

Ms Chapman said the closure of the branch on Duke Street, which is scheduled for May 3, is a "real loss".

“Face-to-face services often mean the chance of a chat for people who might not see anyone else all day, and can be a vital part of tackling the issue of loneliness amongst our older communities, which is sadly so widespread.

“The services a local branch provide can also offer peace of mind and the security of seeing bank transactions take place in a world where bank fraud is worryingly targeted at vulnerable individuals."