A LACK of customers is behind a decision to close the TSB branch in Largs five days a week, bank bosses claimed this week.

The Main Street branch is will open just two days each week as of July.

The bank say that it is a decision 'based on economics' and say they are maintaining a presence in the town by just keeping it operational.

The company say that pressures on the high street have come because of internet banking, with Largs less affected than other areas by bank closures.

The TSB, which has been based in Largs Main Street for decades, will be open only on Monday and Friday when the changes take affect.

A spokesperson for the bank said: "With fewer people using our Largs branch, rather than close it, we will be reducing the days it’s open from five days to two days.

"The new opening hours will change to when the branch is the most busiest.

"Customers also have access to our digital and telephone banking services and can complete many personal banking tasks at the local Post Office, 56 Gallowgate Street, which is a very short distance away away."

The TSB have confirmed to the News that there will be no job losses as a result of the move.

Andrew Thomas, Area Director for South and West Scotland at TSB said: “Our customers use banking services in different ways and that is why we try to adapt our offer to deliver them the best possible service however they choose to bank. This means investment in both branches and digital channels.

“With fewer people using our branch in Largs, we are reducing the number of hours it is open.

“Our TSB Partners will be working with our customers to support them as we make this change.”

The TSB say they are determined to use strategies such as this reduction to save costs, and maintain a high street presence for 'those people who need it most', especially in places from which other banks have already pulled out. Santander closed its branch in the town centre last summer.

Mr Thomas added: "We’ve looked hard at how we can maintain a presence, but in a more cost-effective way.

"Opening on fewer days helps us to do this."