A local Halifax branch will shut due to more customers switching to online banking.

Lloyds Banking Group has announced today (March 23) that the Halifax at Ballards Lane, Finchley Central, is among 60 banks to cease across the UK.

It will close its doors on July 12 this year.

The company said the move was driven by a surge in online banking demand over recent years, while branch footfall has dwindled.

But Trade union Unite has said it could result in 124 job losses nationally, although the company has not said how many workers will be affected.

Instead, Lloyds stressed it aims to offer a new role to staff involved.

Vim Maru, group retail director at Lloyds Banking Group, said: “Just like many other high street businesses, fewer customers are choosing to visit our branches.

“Our branch network is an important way for us to support our customers but we need to adapt to the significant growth in customers choosing to do most of their everyday banking online.”

According to the banking group, the decision includes the closure of 24 Lloyds Bank, 19 Bank of Scotland and 17 Halifax sites.