THE Liskeard branch of Britannia, the Co-operative Bank, is pulling out of the town in April.

The five staff employed at the branch, at 2, Pike Street, are in a period of consultation with the bank over their futures.

The former Bristol and West Building Society traded at the same address before being taken over by the former Britannia Building Society eight years ago. In 2009 a merger led to the branch's new name of 'Britannia part of Co-operative Bank.'

The Co-op announced in its bank re-capitalisation plan in November 2013 that it intended to 'rationalise' its branch network by at least 15 per cent by the end of 2014. Of four branches in Cornwall, Truro is the only one saved from the axe. As well as Liskeard, the St Austell and Bude branches face closure.

Commenting on the shock announcement for Liskeard, Heather Lauder, customer and distribution director for the Co-operative Bank, said: 'This decision has not been taken lightly and we appreciate that the closure of our Liskeard branch is disappointing. We are committed to supporting impacted customers and colleagues and will be keeping them fully informed throughout these changes.  

'As we refocus our business, we will be investing in self-service and digital channels in order to provide our customers with new ways to service their accounts. We remain focused on providing our highest levels of service, and customers with our Liskeard branch will be contacted directly prior to the closure, with further details about alternative channels they can use to service their accounts.'

The staff at Liskeard were unable to comment, but all have been involved in the local community through fundraising events they have held for the Co-op's chosen charity 'The Carers' Trust.' The manager is also treasurer of Liskeard Chamber of Commerce.