A Lloyds bank branch in Norfolk will remain open for six months longer than its initial closure date, it has been revealed. 

It was announced earlier this year that the Bridge Street Lloyds in Downham Market would close in September, but the bank has postponed its closure to allow the replacement "banking hub" time to get up and running.

Blaming falling footfall for the decision to shut its doors, echoing sentiments from other banks around the country, the Downham Market branch will now close on March 24 next year. 

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A Lloyds spokeswoman said: "Visits to our Bridge Street, Downham Market branch have fallen over recent years, as many customers now choose to bank digitally.

"Customers can also use the local Post Office for everyday banking which is a short walk away, access cash at the nearby free-to-use ATMs, alongside banking over the phone and online, or at the new banking hub once it's up and running."

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Hoping for a "smooth transition" of banking services in the community, it has assured customers the new hub will have a traditional banking counter where customers of main UK banks can deposit and withdraw cash, pay in cheques and check balances.

Criticism toward branch closures in Norfolk has often been levelled at a withdrawal of in-person support for the elderly or disadvantaged customers unable to bank online. 

In response, Lloyds has cited non-traditional modes of personal banking such as the nearby Post Office, at 31 High Street, as well as nearby ATMs as suitable alternatives.