Hundreds of bank branches across the UK permanently shut their doors during the coronavirus crisis, a new report has found.
More than 500 branches have closed since the start of the pandemic last year, according to the consumer champion Which?.
Repeated national lockdowns appear to have accelerated a shift to online banking for many customers.
But there are growing concerns over the impact the closure of branches in towns could have on vulnerable customers who rely on in-person banking.
Which? found that 529 bank branches have closed since March 23 last year when the first national lockdown was imposed. Stock image
The Financial Conduct Authority had urged banks to delay branch closures during the pandemic where possible to do so.