TOWNspeople in Blaenavon are fighting against the closure of the town's only remaining bank by holding a public meeting.

The global banking giant HSBC have issued warning that it plans to close its Blaenavon branch from May 11, citing that it is no longer commercially viable.

Worried traders and local residents are planning to launch a petition against the proposals at an emergency meeting which is being held tonight, (Thursday, January 26).

The campaigners are hoping to get the area's elected politicians involved in their plight

But the Mayor of Blaenavon said that the banking organisation is not living up to its slogan of being 'The world's local bank'.

Councillor Stuart Evans said: "This news that the bank is to close on May 11 has come as a huge shock to the community, both in Blaenavon and indeed the surrounding communities of Varteg, Garndiffaith and Talywaun who use the banking facilities.

"This closure will cause severe difficulty's for the elderly with mobility issues, and young vulnerable family's without any means of transport, this will mean that it could cost up to £6 to travel to the nearest bank.

"This decision will also have a devastating effect on the local economy, with traders already struggling to maintain trade.

"What message will this closure send out to prospective business's who may have had thoughts of opening up in Blaenavon.

"Many residents who work in local industries also have their salaries paid in to the bank and will also have to travel to neighbouring Towns to withdraw their salaries. Not a pleasant thought if the weather we experience in winter months prevent travel to the nearest bank."

Blaenavon Town Council will be holding the public meeting on Thursday, January 26 at the Workman's Hall at 6pm in order to discuss this emotive issue and a platform to inform the residents what the council has done in trying to overturn this decision.

Councillor Evans added: "A delegation from Blaenavon Town Council are meeting with HSBC's regional manager this week. We are hoping for a packed audience at the public meeting to show the strength of feeling there is to this decision to close the bank.