Lloyds Bank is closing a Somerset branch - See the details here

The banking group, which includes Lloyds and Halifax, said the closures were a result of a decline in visits by customers.

The announcement will cut the number of Lloyds Banking Group branches to 1,475, according to Unite union.

Unite said closing the 41 Lloyds Bank and seven Halifax branches will mean that thousands of customers will be denied access to vital services and cash.

Lloyds Bank logo. Credit: Lloyds

The union also added that closures could lead to up to 178 job losses.

Unite also said that it believes that there should be a legal commitment for the banking industry to protect the public's access to cash and in-person banking services.

Vim Maru, retail director for Lloyds Banking Group, said: “Like many other businesses, we’ve seen people using our branches less frequently in recent years, and this decline is continuing.

“Our branches remain a fundamental part of how we serve our customers but we need to ensure the size of our branch network reflects the number of customers wanting to use them.”

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The announcement by Lloyds Banking Group of closing a further 48 bank branches is a complete betrayal of the communities and staff who have long supported this highly profitable business.

“This sector needs to start taking their corporate social responsibilities seriously and stop neglecting their obligations to their customers and workforce.

“Banks are leaving people behind in the rush to close bank branches and force consumers to go cashless to boost their mega-profits. It’s a classic example of putting profits before people.”

Where is the Lloyds Bank branch closing in Somerset?

The Lloyds Banking Group will be closing one branch in Somerset.

It will be closing its branch in Crewkerne.

The branch will closure from March 7 2022.

See the full list of UK closures.