WHAT YOU’RE SAYING...

THERE was some mixed reaction to how the closure of NatWest will affect Aberdare.

Some said the bank, so centrally located, would be a big loss, with the nearest branch now seven miles away in Merthyr Tydfil, while others said the internet has taken over, and there’s no need for them anymore.

Commenting on Facebook, Kieron Gough said: “Absolute nightmare. As a business customer I need the deposited funds cleared on the day.

“The post office option takes a few days to clear. I’m truly gutted for Claire and her team. I’ve used this branch for 15 years. It’s so sad. But as this digital age advances it’s hard for businesses to survive.”

Christine Dudley wrote: “I have used this bank since the early 70s and will have no alternative but to transfer my accounts to a bank that is remaining in Aberdare, something I really do not want to do.”

Leon Hasler posted: “First they make the opening hours so ridiculous that getting to the bank is difficult. And now they want to close it down.

“Well I hope that they have a large lorry to transport all of my savings to Merthyr.”

Angela Page commented: “Our High Street and town is disappearing, too many shops closing, not attracting new businesses, less reason to go in to town, less money spent, more shops likely to close.”

David Coleman added: “Trouble is people have spoilt it by doing online banking and it’s costing jobs.”

While Samantha Carter said: “What about the elderly who aren’t able to use modern technology?

“No post offices, no banks, where does it leave people in this position? Keeping their money at home maybe. As if they aren’t in a vulnerable enough position these days.”

But others showed less concern, and said bank branches are no longer as important as they once were.

Andrew Chinnock posted: “I’m not surprised. Apart from paying in cheques I never need to go to a branch.

“More of us are using the internet, phone or apps to bank that small branches of all banks are closing.

“No-one can blame the council or any political party over this.”

Scott Barwell commented: “In a few years only the big cities will have banks, Cardiff and Swansea and the like.

“Personally, I can’t remember the time where I used a bank other than drop the odd £50 into my account. I do everything on my mobile now so it’s pointless.”

Tony Temme added: “Why is this deemed as ‘unacceptable’?”

Gavin Wiltshire said: “It’s like any shop. If it’s not used and not making money it will close.”