BOSSES have halted plans to close a town's last bank.

Lloyds will review the decision to shut its branch in Upton after a campaign by local traders and the MP.

Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, said the bank's chief executive had promised her he had no plans to close the branch.

Mrs Baldwin wrote to the boss, Antonio Horta-Osorio, to share her concerns - and she has now received a reply.

Mr Horta-Osorio wrote: "You raise a number of helpful points about the situation in Upton, in particular the provision of ATMs and the Post Office.

"I have asked my colleagues to look into these as a matter of urgency. Until then I have given instructions that no further steps should be taken regarding the closure of the branch."

Mrs Baldwin said: "I am grateful for the chief executive to respond so quickly and positively to my request.

"Although I am clear that the argument has not yet been made to keep the branch, I am pleased that they are following the correct protocols regarding the last branch in town.

“Local people are signing a petition which I will share with the CEO but most importantly, we now need to make the case to make sure local people, traders and tourists are all reassured that the banks have not deserted Upton.

“There is some way to go yet but I am pleased that at least the bank is listening to feedback and is prepared to put the plans on hold to take a second look."

Upton Business Association (UBA) started a petition after Lloyds announced that it planned to close the branch on October 15.

Annette Keyworth, chair of the UBA, said most local businesses use the bank for change and other things.

She added that the bank also has a 24-hour cash machine.

Lloyds previously said it decided to shut the branch because of a change in banking methods, which has resulted in declining use.

Upton's Lloyds branch currently opens three days a week.