A PILOT scheme allowing bank customers to use the services of banks other than their own has won the praise of an MP.

North Swindon member Michael Wills visited Cricklade to see the scheme in action.

The participating banks are Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds TSB and Nat West.

Mr Wills, parliamentary secretary in the Lord Chancellor's Department, said: "This is a great boost for the local community and will be of enormous benefit to the people of Crick-lade.

"It's a very good step to take and, if successful, could be a way of making banks sustainable in remote areas."

Cricklade is one of 10 places nationwide taking part in a shared banking services pilot scheme run by the four banks under the auspices of the British Banking Association.

The expanded service is open only to personal and small business customers.