Oliver Dowden, Member of Parliament for Hertsmere, last week convened a meeting with representatives from Barclays Bank to raise his objections to the closure of their Bushey branch.

The meeting was attended by Ms Kim Mezoui, Barclays’ Community Banking Director, and Ms Lisa Webb, their Head of Corporate Relations.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Dowden said: ‘The announcement that Barclays are closing their Bushey branch is a blow for the village and will hit vulnerable and elderly residents who rely on its services.

‘That’s why I oppose this decision and why it was important for me to meet directly with officials from Barclays and push them on what is being done to support residents.

‘I secured commitments from the bank in the event of closure that they will be offering extensive, one to one support to everyone affected and guiding them on how to use the alternative facilities that are available. They have also offered to continue to provide a temporary presence in the village while people adjust.

‘It does not make up for the loss of the branch but I hope this will provide some comfort to people affected and I will continue to push Barclays to make sure that it is delivered.’