Those of more senior years may wish to pay with cash

THE letter entitled "Please allow those of us of more senior years to remain part of society and pay with cash" appeared in the Courier on Friday, November 2, issue 1214.

Coldridge resident, John W Smith, was responding to an article published in the "Courier" on October 19 about the drive to a cashless society.

He wondered how the local, independent traders, who deal mainly in cash transactions will pay in their takings, especially now that all but one bank in Crediton have shut.

He pointed out that we are fortunate to still have a Post Office and hoped that this facility would remain.

John believes that a truly cashless society is still a very long way off for those of us in rural communities.

He said: "Please allow those of us of slightly more senior years to remain included in society for the time being, rather than being driven into obscurity by a relentless drive towards total automation and an inability to pay for anything local in cash!

Are you happy using online banking or would you prefer to visit a bank?

Please let me know your thoughts.

You can Contact me at 102 High Street, Crediton or email: [email protected] .

What you told us ...

My husband and I are not online and depend on Lloyds. Not that the bank will take any notice - if they want to close it they will.

Mrs Valerie Tucker, Crediton

It’s appalling! We don’t bank online. I’m the treasurer for WI and we use Lloyds, the last remaining bank in the town. Although I must say the Post Office are doing a brilliant job and the staff are very nice. It’s difficult when you own a shop and have to pay cash in and we don’t want to lose any more shops because of it.

Hazel Wainwright, Zeal Monachorum

I hate it - being an older woman I hate the machines and the reduced hours. I hate paying in cheques and tend to just pop them through the letterbox. I can appreciate how people feel having lost their bank from the town at least Lloyds is still there. If my mum were still alive she’d hate the machines too. Bank staff have to show me how to use them every time I go in!

Crediton Resident

As a semi-rural business that still deals with cash and cheques it’s important to have a High Street bank. Online banking has it uses in terms of speed, efficiency and the environment. However, it’s good to have a personal service which is important in maintaining good business, especially in a small town like Crediton.

Local business owner