The National Federation of Sub-Postmasters has reminded Ashby savers that there are alternatives available nearby following the closure of the Market Street branch of Santander last week.

The Ashby office was closed on July 29 - a decision that had been announced months in advance.

But the NSFP says: "This will doubtless be disappointing to Santander's customers in Ashby.

"However, alternative banking provision is available to local residents at post office branches nearby.

"The nearest post offices to the closing of Santander bank in Ashby are:

• Ashby De La Zouch Post Office, 19-21 Market Street

• Blackfordby Mobile Service Post Office, Blackfordby Fields, Sandtop Lane

• Moira Post Office, 38 Ashby Road, Moira, DE12 6DJ

"Each of these branches offers banking services - including deposits, free cash withdrawals and balance checks, as well as offering face-to-face access to government services, bill payment, foreign currency, travel insurance and, of course, postal services.

"There are currently 2,000 free-to-use ATMs installed across the UK post office network also.

"Post offices are proving vital to retaining people's and businesses' access to cash as the banks continue to desert the high street in order to cut costs and increase their profits.

"Every post office plays a vital role within the heart of the local community.

"Post offices provide a reliable and essential service which has continued at a high standard across the whole of the UK throughout the pandemic."