A LOCAL postmaster has welcomed the restoration of cheque deposit services for Lloyds Banking Group customers at Post Offices, describing the move as ‘very good news’ for communities, businesses and organisations across Devon.

Councillor Stuart Rogers, Devon County Councillor for Ashburton and Buckfastleigh and a local Postmaster, said the return of the service would be particularly important for rural communities, where access to traditional banking facilities has become increasingly limited.

From the beginning of September 2026, Lloyds Banking Group customers will once again be able to deposit cheques through their local Post Office.

The decision follows Lloyds Banking Group’s move earlier this year to reverse plans to end cheque deposits at Post Offices and Banking Hubs.

The original proposals had prompted widespread concern from councils, MPs and community groups, including Devon County Council, which warned that rural communities could be disproportionately affected.

Councillor Rogers said the restoration would give customers greater choice while helping to maintain an important service within local communities.

‘This is very good news for Devon’s communities, businesses, farmers and voluntary organisations’, he said.

‘Many people still depend on cheque payments and value the convenience of being able to carry out banking transactions at their local Post Office.

‘For some customers, particularly in rural areas, this service is essential.

‘Post Offices are a cornerstone of community life.

‘Restoring cheque deposits helps protect local services and gives customers greater choice in how they manage their money’.

More than half of Devon’s population lives in rural areas, with many communities having experienced the closure of traditional bank branches in recent years.

For residents, farmers, charities, community organisations and small businesses that continue to use cheques, the return of the service means they can once again carry out an important banking transaction locally, rather than having to travel further afield.

Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs and Broadband, Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, also welcomed the announcement, saying it was a ‘significant boost’ for rural communities.

She said the council had been clear that removing cheque deposit facilities risked increasing financial exclusion, particularly in areas where banking services were already limited.

‘This is excellent news for Devon and for all those people who continue to rely on cheque payments as part of their day-to-day lives’, she said.

‘For many residents, charities, community organisations, farmers and small businesses, the local Post Office remains an essential service’.

Councillor Rogers urged residents to continue supporting their local Post Offices, highlighting their importance to the long-term sustainability of community services.

‘I would encourage people to continue supporting their local Post Office wherever possible’, he said.

‘Every customer makes a difference and helps ensure these important community assets remain sustainable for the future’.

Lloyds Banking Group customers are encouraged to check with their local Post Office or Lloyds for details of how the reinstated cheque deposit service will operate.