DEESIDE'S Assembly Member is calling for his constituency to become a pilot area from a new banking scheme.

Jack Sargeant AM recently wrote to First Minister Mark Drakeford regarding a Community Bank of Wales and said his area would benefit greatly.

He said: "Whilst online services have made access to banking easier for some, far too many areas, like Buckley in my constituency for example, have felt the serious consequences of bank branch closures.

"Like you, I understand that closures have left a serious gap in services for localities, especially for small businesses needing short term loans or overdrafts to help them survive and thrive.

"At the same time, it’s causing a lot of issues for local residents who must now get a bus to Mold or Shotton to reach their nearest bank.

"A community bank would help in towns like Buckley to transform into a modern high street suitable for all. If such a move is to begin with pilot areas, I would be very interested in Alyn and Deeside being considered."

Since 2015, more than 2,800 have closed across the UK and Assembly research shows more than 200 banks have shut in Wales since 2008.

Mr Sargeant said this presents a huge challenge for many elderly and vulnerable people who often rely on face-to-face services.

The Alyn and Deeside AM wrote to the First Minister to request an update on what the Government is doing to establish a Community Bank of Wales.

He said: "I was extremely pleased to see this initiative part of your manifesto when you stood for the Leadership of Welsh Labour.

"I am particularly to hear what information the Government has on establishment timescales, as well as where its headquarters might be based and some of the services it will provide."

Mr Sargeant will also be raising the issue with Mark Drakeford AM during First Minister's Questions on June 18.

The First Minister previously pledged to establish a Community Bank of Wales in his leadership manifesto. In response to the need for better banking services, he committed to set up a bank that would offer current accounts to all local residents and would be established on a 'one member, one vote' basis.

Buckley Councillor Carolyn Preece set up a petition after her local Lloyds branch was to close - since then over 100,000 people have signed to show their support.

Cllr Preece added: "Buckley would be a good place to pilot the Community Bank of Wales scheme. It will have the full support from all of the community and active community residents. Thank you Jack for bringing this to the attention of the Welsh Government."