Local MP Simon Hart is seeking reassurance that Whitland's last bank will stay open after its hours were cut by 80%.

Mr Hart, whose constituency office is in the town, has had a number of local residents and businesses get in touch with him to oppose the plans.

"The bank is closing its doors four days a week and will remain open only on Tuesdays," said Mr Hart.

"This will be a severe inconvenience to a number of local shops who do their banking there.

"A significant number of elderly people use the branch and they will now have to travel to St Clears or Narberth or wait until a Tuesday to do their banking- this in an area with limited public transport.

"We also have patchy broadband coverage and so those who are willing to use the internet to bank might not be able to do so even if they want to."

Local businesses have started a petition to try to get NatWest to change its mind as they are worried that the closure will lead to fewer visitors to the town.

Mr Hart has now written to the bank's chief executive to ask that the branch stays open for an extra day a week and for reassurance that NatWest is committed to the town.

"I am worried that this may be the start of a slippery slope and that before long Whitland, which once had four banks, will be down to zero."