Banking could soon return to Saddleworth, as plans for a specialist hub are explored.

It comes as the area has seen 75 percent of its banking facilities close in the last nine years, with that trend only set to continue.

Residents have been left with few places to withdraw cash, as a number of ATMs have also disappeared.

This has meant that people in Saddleworth have had to rely on the resources provided by post offices – or travel into Oldham town centre.

Saddleworth Parish Council described banking as an “urgent requirement” and is exploring options to set up a "banking hub".

It would offer face-to-face banking services, regardless of which bank residents normally use.

The banking hub would be commissioned by ATM network Link and operated by the Post Office, in partnership with major high street providers.

An update on the progress is expected from the parish council in the near future.