Brentford's MP Ruth Cadbury is to meet Barclays Bank bosses to try to persuade them to re-think plans to close their branch on the high street.

The bank is due to shut its doors in June, saying that not enough people use the branch as they switch to digital banking.

A petition has been organised by community group Brentford Voice which has already got hundreds of signatures since it was launched earlier this week.

Ms Cadbury said: '"Like many Brentford residents I was extremely concerned and upset about the news that Barclays will be closing their branch on Brentford High Street.

"This branch is a vital link both for residents locally, but also businesses who rely on the bank.

"I've already arranged a meeting with Barclays and I will be making clear to them the serious and damaging impact that this will have on local residents and businesses in Brentford.

"I know that Hounslow Council and elected councillors are already working hard along with Brentford Voice, to ensure that Brentford continues to have an accessible high street bank.

"Along with the loss of the post office on Brentford High Street I am extremely concerned that we are seeing essential public services being lost from our high street.

"This will force people to travel long distances to carry out basic services and will cause greatly difficulty for those unable to travel, or bank online or via the phone.

"I'm particularly concerned about the impact this will have on older customers, and those with disabilities.

"I will also be raising this directly with the government- it is clear that we need a pro-active approach to support our high streets and vital community assets such as these.''

The petition can be found here

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