AS A customer of Lloyds Bank for over 30 years, I am appalled to hear of the closure of the Yelverton sub-branch and have reluctantly had to voice my concerns over current banking policy.

Whilst the local sub-post officer may be honest and likeable, people will not wish to conduct their banking business in the mainly public environs of such establishments in the rural areas.

Has no thought been given to the relative security of the customers and employees? Post Office robberies in this area are relatively few, however, they are on the increase in other parts of the country, where knowledge of the changes in 'banking' procedures have made such establishments targets for the nastier type of villain.

By its very nature, the sub-post office/shop is vulnerable, due to lack of staff. In addition, that loss of personal contact with the bank and peace of mind over transactions is being eroded. I disagree totally with the bank's comment that Yelverton is under-used like others in the area: whenever I have gone to it, there has always been a steady stream of clients and often queues.

G P Falvey

10 Lopes Road

Dousland