IF a bank appears in the news these days it is likely to be the announcement of yet another branch closure but back in 1995 Barclays was affected by strike action.

The Mail, on May 30, noted: "Bank staff were on the warpath in Furness today as a one-day pay strike closed nine banks.

"Only one out of the Furness area's seven Barclays branches remained open, with six managers and four non-striking clerical workers providing an emergency service taking in business cash from the bank holiday."

Among the branches closed were those in Ulverston, Millom, Bootle, Broughton and Coniston.

Two bank unions called the national action in protest at an imposed 2.75 per cent pay deal. Members wanted 5.5 per cent.

In Barrow, placard-carrying staff picketed the branch in Dalton Road and the main business bank in Duke Street.