Access to cash still matters in rural North Yorkshire. Many people don't drive, don't bank online and rely on cash for everyday things, and local businesses depend on it too.
LINK, the body that decides whether communities need new cash services, has recently assessed several ATM closures across Thirsk and Malton. I've written to them about three places.
In Helmsley, LINK agrees that losing the Barclays ATM on Market Place leaves a real gap, and has recommended a new cash machine. I welcome that. I've asked LINK to confirm the new machine will be in place before any Barclays services close, so the town isn't left without one.
In Kirby Misperton, LINK found no gap after the ATM at Flamingo Land closed. I disagree, and I've asked them to look again. People live on the site all year round, and villagers rely on that machine.
In Bedale, the town serves many surrounding villages and farms. Getting to a bank can mean a long round trip on unreliable rural buses. I've asked LINK to look again at Bedale's needs.
I've asked to meet LINK and I'll keep pushing on this.
