BANK bosses have allayed fears a popular branch is closing.

Customers had been alarmed when the building which is home to Barclay's bank, in Cotman Road, Prettygate, Colchester, was advertised for rent on a number of websites.

But a Barclays spokesman said: “Although we regularly review our branches, we have no plans to close our Prettygate branch.

"We have been re-negotiating our lease with our landlord and have now reached an agreement.

"We have asked that any advertising for the building be taken down."

The lease was being advertised for £35,000 per year.