LEADING bank HSBC is closing its doors in Cinderford after 95 years.

A spokesperson said a drop in footfall is to blame and letters have been sent to customers informing them the branch will shut on January 13, 2017.

The spokesperson said: “We continually review our branch network to make sure our branches are in the right locations for our customers and that we have a sustainable network for the future. Over the past five years, we have seen footfall reduce by an average of 40 per cent at our regional branches and sometimes we have to make the difficult decision to close branches. These are not decisions we take lightly and we work closely with those impacted, including customers, to help them understand their options.

“With regard to the Cinderford branch, we have advised our customers that there is an alternative branch in Ross-on-Wye, should customers wish to visit a branch and talk to a member of the HSBC team face-to-face.

“We will be working closely with our customers in the coming weeks to ensure they are fully aware of all the measures in place to support them.”

The branch in Market Street was first opened on August 3, 1921.