A popular local bank is to be shuttered this week after a spate of closures.

Natwest, situated on Crockhamwell Road in Woodley, will close by the end of the week.

It will mean that the closest Natwest bank for residents will be situated in the Reading Oracle.

A spokesperson for Natwest Bank said: "With the ease of mobile and online banking fewer people are coming into the bank.

"This means we’ve had to make some tough choices about which can stay open.

"We completely understand that online banking isn’t right for everyone. Sometimes you want to chat things through with someone.

"We promise that you’ll still be able to talk to one of our team either on the phone, by video or in one of our other branches."

According to Natwest, the bank in Woodley has seen a 54 per cent reduction in counter transactions between January 2019 and January 2023 - with a 66 per cent rise in those using mobile and online banking. 

Previously Woodley resident Dudley Jones, 82, launched a petition to save the bank from closure.

He said: "The closure of bank branches is a huge problem for the immobile and the elderly. It’s OK for younger people, but many my age can’t use a smartphone."

Natwest has added that customers can access most services at their local post office, including checking their balance, withdrawing and paying in cash.

Natwest's Woodley branch will close on Thursday, October 5.