Nationwide Building Society is changing the opening hours of its Ashby branch in April - and has written to the Town Council to explain the reasons behind the decision.

Andrew Westhead, regional director, has explained to councillors why it is happening - and what customers should do if the new hours affect them.

Last Monday's Ashby de la Zouch Town Council planning committee members were presented with a letter from Mr Westhead.

It reads: "From Monday, April 17, the Ashby de la Zouch branch at 37, Market Street will be open to provide face-to-face service on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

"Then it is closed on Wednesday and Friday.

"Branches continue to play an incredibly important role for Nationwide and we firmly believe there is a future for them in providing members with valued face-to-face service.

"However, as more members use alternative ways to look after their money with us, such as online digital or telephone banking, we are looking at how we can best support all of our members.

"This means we are changing the opening hours at some branches, closing onto weekdays with branch colleagues supporting other teams on these days by answering calls from members of across the country."

The move comes after HSBC, Lloyds and Santander have all closed their branches in Market Street.

Mr Westhead added: "We know that some members may need some assistance with this change, and we want to help as many as possible.

"For members getting in contact, concerned about the reduction in hours, or wanting to speak to one of the team, they can visit their local branch, phone us on 03452661061 or email [email protected].

"We will be writing to all members effected and we proactively call members. We aware of members who are vulnerable and need to be provided with additional support.

"We will help as many members as possible at this time, and although we have our own processes to identify members who may need additional support, we also contact local groups and charities, we would like to be advised as to whether there are particular groups, we should be engaging with.

"The decision to reduce our hours has been thoroughly assessed at Nationwide."