Devon councillors welcome return of Post Office cheque service
The move has been welcomed as a boost for rural communities, farmers and small businesses across the county
Lloyds Banking Group customers can once again deposit cheques at Post Offices, in a move which has been welcomed by Devon County Council.
The Post Office began processing cheque deposits for Lloyds Banking Group customers at the start of September, meaning residents, businesses, farmers, charities and community organisations can carry out the transactions at their local branch.
The service had been due to end, but Lloyds Banking Group reversed its plans earlier this year following concerns from councils, MPs and community groups.
Devon County Council had warned that removing cheque deposits could have a disproportionate impact on rural communities, where access to traditional banking services is already limited.
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, the council's Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs and Broadband, said the return of the service was "excellent news" for Devon.
She said many residents, charities, community groups, farmers and small businesses still rely on cheques as part of their day-to-day activities.
"The local Post Office remains an essential service," she said.
"The return of cheque deposits means people can once again carry out important banking transactions close to home, rather than travelling long distances to find alternative facilities."
More than half of Devon's population lives in rural areas, while communities across the county have seen traditional bank branches close in recent years.
Cllr Cottle-Hunkin said the council had been concerned that removing cheque deposits could increase financial exclusion, particularly among people who have limited access to digital banking.
She added that Post Offices play an important role in supporting local communities and economies.
The announcement has also been welcomed by Councillor Stuart Rogers, Devon County Councillor for Ashburton and Buckfastleigh and a local Postmaster.
He said the return of the service was "very good news" for communities, businesses, farmers and voluntary organisations.
"Many people still depend on cheque payments and value the convenience of being able to carry out banking transactions at their local Post Office," he said.
"For some customers, particularly in rural areas, this service is essential."
Cllr Rogers also encouraged people to continue using their local Post Offices, saying that every customer helps support their long-term sustainability.
Cllr Cottle-Hunkin thanked those who had campaigned against the removal of cheque deposits, saying the decision demonstrated what could be achieved when communities, councils, MPs and industry partners worked together.