A BUILDING society's 50 years of service to a west Dorset town was marked. 

Nationwide in Bridport was visited by MP Chris Loder on Friday, May 19 who praised the branch's 'continued service' to people in the market town.

The west Dorset MP met with staff and was given a tour of the branch to learn about how it has stayed on the high street at a time when many other banks have closed down physical stores.

It is estimated that 35,000 people in west Dorset receive financial services provided by Nationwide and more than 2,000 of these are mortgage holders.

The building society is also thought to have lent nearly £12million to first-time buyers in west Dorset.

"In a climate when banks are withdrawing from our towns and high streets, Nationwide has bucked the trend, with branches in Bridport, Dorchester, Weymouth and Blandford," Mr Loder said.

"The Bridport branch has provided 50 years of continued service to the people of Bridport and the surrounding areas, thanks in part to its robust business model and popularity.

"I would encourage constituents to consider Nationwide given their commitment to stay on our high streets.”