BATLEY and Spen MP Tracy Brabin has called an emergency meeting following the recent closures of banks in Heckmondwike.

Natwest left the town in May leaving only a Santander branch, which is also due to close in October.

The public meeting, with Heckmondwike Business Alliance and card payment company Square, aims to help local businesses accept card payments.

Square is offering card readers for free to small businesses.

The meeting will take place at Heckmondwike Scout Hut at 6pm on Friday, June 29.

Tracy Brabin said “If we are to reinvigorate our local towns we need to be forward-thinking and embrace new technologies or run the risk of being left behind.

“The bank closures are a huge blow for the public and businesses alike so it’s important we do what we can to mitigate the impact.”