So far, it is unknown how many jobs will be affected by NatWest’s latest round of bank branch closures.

Government High Streets Task Force expert and ShopAppy founder, Dr Jackie Mulligan said: “Following the TSB closures announced late last year, this news is yet another shattering blow to the UK high street, which is already reeling after nearly two years of pain.

"The shift online is irreversible, but so, too, is the damage that a bank leaving a high street can cause for the shops that surround it.

"Local high street shops need their local communities more than ever and the gradual retreat of banks, which bring all-important footfall, poses another existential threat.

"More important than ever, now, it is vital we support our local high street businesses.”

James Andrews, Senior Personal Finance Editor at money.co.uk, said against the backdrop of other UK bank branch closures in recent years, the decision wasn't a "huge surprise".

He added: "“If, like millions of Brits, you do all your banking online, then the good news is that your money management is unlikely to change at all. You should still be able to access your accounts and control your finances in the same way you always have done.

“However, many customers cannot, or do not have the facilities, to bank online. And for these people the closures are much more alarming, as they now find themselves at risk of being cut adrift.

“Physical branches provide many Brits, particularly the elderly who often have not transitioned online, with cash access and vital banking services.

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