The Hucknall branch of Lloyds Bank on the High Street is safe for now it's been confirmed.

Last week, Lloyds Banking Group announced the permanent closure of 48 branches early next year adding to 100 already shutting or shut in 2021.

Despite the Hucknall branch not being included on this list there was still concern from residents about its future.

However, Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, had confirmation that the Hucknall branch would remain open as he held an urgent meeting with senior bosses from the Lloyds Banking Group, including Public Affairs Manager Jeremy Driver, and Senior Bank Manager, David Brooks.

Councillor Zadrozny held the meeting to discuss their decision to close the popular bank on Station Street, Kirkby.

The senior Lloyds Banking Group staff have confirmed that they will go ahead with plans to shut the last bank standing in Kirkby-in-Ashfield.

At the same time, they have confirmed they are investing in the Sutton-in-Ashfield branch and that their branch in Hucknall is safe.

Councillor Zadrozny has called for promised legislation to stop banks turning their backs on communities to be implemented urgently.

He said: "It's clear that Lloyds will not backtrack on their decision to close their branch in Kirkby.

"I had been contacted by a number of Lloyds' customers from Hucknall who asked me for reassurances about the Hucknall Branch on High Street. I was pleased to hear that they currently have no plans to shut Hucknall's branch.

"I have called for the Government to bring forward promised legislation to stop banks turning their backs on our residents just like Barclays did in Hucknall last year."

Councillor John Wilmott has long campaigned to retain bank branches in Hucknall.

He said: "Last year, hundreds of loyal customers lost their local Barclays Bank. Many more were understandably worried that Lloyds would be next. Especially as they announced their recent round of closures.

"I'd like to thank the Council Leader for seeking assurance that Lloyds wasn't going to be next.

"I'd say use your bank and I would implore the Conservative Government to keep their promise and introduce legislation to stop banks from leaving our town centres."