A new banking hub has opened in a Stoke-on-Trent town following the closure of local bank branches.

The new hub has opened in Tunstall at the Tunstall Post Office, 118 High Street, to provide residents and businesses with access to essential banking services. 

The banking hub, which is delivered by Cash Access UK and operated by the Post Office, will be open will be open Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 5pm.

Aaron Elanchelian, who runs the banking hub said: "The securing of a banking hub is a significant win for our town.

"We are grateful to David Williams for his hard work and determination in ensuring residents and businesses continue to have access to vital banking services locally in Tunstall." 

Users of the hub can deposit cash and cheques, withdraw notes and coins, check balances, pay utility bills, top up gas and electricity, and access change-giving services for registered businesses.

Customers can also arrange for face-to-face appointments with community bankers from their own bank for more complex enquiries, including payments, transfers, account management, and support with online banking. 

Banks currently operating from the hub includes Natwest on Wednesdays and Barclays on Thursdays. Halifax will soon begin services on Tuesdays, and Lloyds will offer services from Mondays when the existing branch closes.

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The opening comes as Lloyds Bank in Tunstall prepares to close on 9 March this year.

Following the announcement of the closure, David Williams, MP for Stoke-on-Trent North, successfully pressed for face-to-face banking services to be restored following the closure of local bank branches. 

David Williams MP said: "I am proud to have helped secure this Banking Hub for Tunstall.

"Too many residents and small businesses have been hit by bank closures, and people should not have to travel miles just to access basic banking services.

"When Lloyds announced its plans to close its Tunstall branch last year, I held meetings with both Lloyds and Cash Access UK to ensure that residents would not be left without access to vital banking services locally. 

"I am proud to have worked closely with Aaron at the Post Office and this hub puts proper, face-to-face banking back where it belongs — in the heart of the community.

"It will make a real difference for local people, particularly older residents, vulnerable customers, and small businesses, and it strengthens Tunstall High Street at a time when access to everyday services really matters." 

David Williams MP will speak to additional banks to encourage them to provide services through the hub. 

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