THE NatWest Yeadon branch is to close on December 1.

The number of transactions taking place at Yeadon branch has dropped by 11 per cent since 2011.

ANatWest spokesperson said: "We are committed to following the UK Government protocol on branch closures, and we have made the decision following careful consideration of a wide range of factors including branch usage and the alternative ways our customers can bank with us locally.

"Our customers are increasingly using alternative ways to bank such as online and mobile banking. As a result, branch transactions have declined by around 36 per cent since 2010 whilst online and mobile transactions have grown by more than 300 per cent. Only nine per cent of their total transactions are now undertaken in branches in comparison to 25 per cent in 2010.

"We are writing to all of our customers who use the branch, as well as displaying posters in branch to let them know of the closure. Between now and the closure date, we will engage with all of our customers, local businesses and the wider local community to make sure they are aware of the alternative ways of accessing their banking with us in the local area, and to answer any questions they might have."

The spokesperson added: "We are working hard to ensure there are a number of alternative ways for people in the area to continue to bank with us including:

"Post Office: We have reached an agreement with the local Post Office, which is 0.1 miles away from the branch so that our customers can check their balance, deposit and withdraw funds, and business customers can get coinage. There are five Post Offices within 2.7 miles of the branch.

"ATMs: There are eight free to use ATMs within one mile of the branch.

"Other branches: We have a strong branch representation in the local area, there are seven other branches within seven miles. Our nearest branch, Greengates Bradford, is 2.9 miles away. We will be investing up to £250K in our Shipley branch, which is 5.2 miles away, this year."