THE First Minister slammed the proposal, and it caused public outcry, but still the closure of the HSBC branch in Blaenavon is going ahead.

1,200 signatures against the proposal to close the branch on May 11 were handed to HSBC by Blaenavon Town Council in February.

The First Minister Carwyn Jones also objected to the decision and raised the issue in The Welsh Assembly.

However, the effort has fallen on deaf ears and the branch will still be closing, this Friday.

The former Blaenavon Mayor, Stuart Evans, who spoke out against plans, said: "I realise the date for closure is fast approaching, and I, along with my fellow Councillors, are deeply saddened that we couldn't overturn HSBC's decision to remain in Blaenavon.

"I feel it will impact on employees and traders in the town, and also incur cost for low income families who will have to travel to banks outside Blaenavon, as will elderly residents, and voluntary groups who presently use the bank."

Blaenavon Town Council has tried to make sure that although the bank will be closing, that the cash point will remain, and has also sought other banking providers to come into the town.

Cllr Evans added: "We have yet to see any firm confirmation that the ATM has had a planning application sought, as was agreed at one of the many meetings with HSBC.

"Myself and others have tried to encourage other providers into the town, and will continue to do so, but at this time we have been unsuccessful in our endeavours."

The Chief Executive new Virgin Money banking group was approached and now Councillor Alan Jones has received a letter back from Stuart Miller, head of branch sales which although unlikely, doesn't rule out a branch opening in the future.

Mr Miller wrote: "I can't make any promises about a branch coming to Blaenavon any time soon, but we will certainly be reviewing very carefully where we can make a difference in future."