Residents in Usk will be left with just one bank branch after HSBC announced its closure, prompting concern from Nick Ramsay AM.

The decision to close the branch in June this year follows the lead of Natwest, which shut its doors last November in Usk and Crickhowell.

The Conservative assembly member said he was ‘deeply concerned about the knock-on effects’ the closure would have for Usk High Street.

“I am asking for a meeting with HSBC urgently, and seeking justification for this decision, and asking whether there is any chance it may be reconsidered.

“We need to know what contingency plans are in place for customers, if the closure goes ahead. This is dreadful news for Usk, and with Barclays only open during reduced hours, the future looks bleak for banking in the town.

“I will be doing all I can to try and have this decision reversed,” he said.