Disgruntled customers have spoken of their disappointment after a Herne Bay bank closed.

Bosses at Kent Reliance in Mortimer Street shut the agency at the end of last week, forcing users to travel to Canterbury instead.

Angry customers took to social media this week to voice their disappointment at a lack of consultation.

The branch was based in the Kent Estate Agencies office, which is remaining open.

One resident, who asked not to be named but has used the Reliance branch since it was called Herne Bay Building Society, told the Gazette how the closure surprised him.

He said: “To find it closed with no prior warning really came as a shock.

“Following the closure, Herne Bay customers can use any Kent Reliance branch – the nearest one being Canterbury..." - Robert Gurr

“I went down on the Friday when I received the letter only to find it had closed already.

“I have spoken to people who were in the branch earlier in the week, and they made the comment that there was no mention whatsoever of the branch closing.

“They felt they haven’t been able to thank the staff for their support over the years.”

John D wrote: “Are many people aware that Kent Reliance have closed their Herne Bay branch today, with no prior warning and no consultation?

“I suggest that those living in HB who have accounts with them should protest, loudly!”

Spokesman Robert Gurr said the nearest agency for customers is now in Canterbury.

He said: “Kent Reliance has ended its third-party agreement with Kent Estate Agents by mutual consent, and those customers affected by the decision have been contacted.

“Following the closure, Herne Bay customers can use any Kent Reliance branch – the nearest one being Canterbury.

“For those that wish to close their accounts, customers will be provided with a 12-week penalty-free withdrawal period.

“Herne Bay customers can all also talk to our Savings Team six days a week on 0345 122 11 22.

“Alternatively they can correspond via post by sending a letter to Kent Reliance PO Box 601 Chatham, ME4 9DX.”