HUNDREDS of concerned customers have signed a petition urging Barclays to withdraw its plans to close its Lower Gornal branch.

The bank is set to shut its doors in October, leaving villagers facing a four-mile round trip to the next nearest branch in Sedgley.

Gornal councillor Dave Branwood has launched a campaign against the closure of the Zoar Street branch, which he said many residents rely on.

A petition has attracted more than 270 signatures and Cllr Branwood plans to present it to bank bosses to show the strength of local support.

But the bank said that a decline in customers coming through the door has sparked the October 9 closure as more than half of its customers are already regularly using alternative branches.

Cllr Dave Branwood said although “it sounds like the decision has already been made” he will continue to fight on behalf of residents.

He said: “This petition just goes to show how many local people rely on this branch and will find it difficult to travel to another.

“I have been working hard with traders and residents to make sure the village is as good as it can be and I really don’t want to see the bank standing empty.

“I have written to the chairman of Barclays Bank asking him to think again and I would encourage others do the same.

"I'm looking to get a public meeting set up and I'll be inviting a representative from the bank so they understand the public feeling about this."

To sign the petition, visit www.ianaustin.co.uk/save_our_bank.