Published: 13 July, 2012

• ANGRY traders and shoppers have protested against plans to close the Nationwide Building Society in Archway (Irate customers protest at branch closure, June 22).

I too have written to its chief executive to protest, but have received an empty reply.

The closure is a further blow to people in Archway, as not only did we lose Santander and other important commercial outlets, but we have battled for years to improve our high street and environment.

It therefore seems particularly ironic that Nationwide is capitalising on the disaffection with banks by a full-page newspaper advertising headlined: “166 years ago we picked a side. Yours.” It goes on to state: “166 years ago we opened our doors, and from that day on our only concern has been doing what’s best for our members. We’ve been able to do that because we’re a building society, not a bank, which means we’re not answerable to any shareholders. So, when our 15 million members hear or see the words ‘Nationwide. On Your Side’, then you know we really do mean it.”

Do you know?

For years I believed it, but no longer.

TRICIA BARNETT
Tremlett Grove, N19