Letter: Appalled by the loss of Lymington's TSB branch

SIR – I am appalled to see that our local branch of TSB in Lymington is closing (A&T, 2nd October).

For 60 years I banked with Lloyds Bank and then during the latter years when it was combined with TSB. Then I was compulsory transferred to TSB when the two banks split because of some European ruling. I protested about this to no avail and became a member of TSB.

However, I have to say that I have found the service with TSB exemplary, particularly in our Lymington branch where the staff were never too busy to help with queries and difficulties.

Despite my original protestations about my move from Lloyds, I became a total convert to TSB.

TSB may not realise that many of its customers in Lymington and probably elsewhere are elderly and thus not totally computer literate or internet wise and therefore online banking do not necessarily come easily to many of them. Therefore the bank as a reference point and as an assistance and advisory centre is very important to them.

TSB will say doubtless that customers can always ring up on its helpline – has it any idea how long it takes to get through? Admittedly we are in strange circumstances currently, but even before that there was always a long wait to be answered.

No surprise then that many customers find it easier to call in at the local branch to resolve issues and receive advice. TSB will also say that customers may use the post office. It should be aware, I hope, that many, many rural post offices have closed and those that are open attract huge queues – this was never the case inside our local TSB branch.

If you visit the TSB website, it will tell you where the nearest branches are for you when your local branch has closed. Type in Lymington and you will get Boscombe and Southampton, both a fair bus ride and car journey away and also the wonderful suggestion of Newport, only a mere 14 miles away according to TSB – completely ignoring the fact that you would incur probably a £140 ferry fare!

It is sad that TSB, which appeared to be a small bank which cared for its customers and particularly for its elderly customers, has seen fit to abandon them.

I expect many, probably including myself, will wish to transfer our accounts elsewhere.

Michael Robjohn,

Boldre