‘I’m going to miss it’: Another rural bank branch shuttered near London

West Lorne residents are upset that the town’s only bank is permanently closing. CTV London’s Sean Irvine has the details.

A community southwest of London is preparing for the loss of its only bank branch this week.

The West Lorne BMO branch will close on Friday, July 25. The decision marks the end of decades of service to the community.

“I’ve been here for years, and I’m going to miss it,” said Frances Eagleson, who has been a customer for 40 years.

While upset, she contends she isn’t bitter, “No, I guess, it’s what’s happening in this world, isn’t it? What can we do?”

The pending closure of the branch did not come without a fight. West Elgin Coun. Bill Denning collected hundreds of signatures to reverse the decision.

“The petition was shared with the folks at the Bank of Montreal, but it was not enough to change their minds,” he told CTV News London.

The news is disheartening for Greg Boyce. One year ago, the long-time BMO customer retired to West Lorne after watching branches near his previous communities shutter.

“I guess this is the next one. You know, it’s disappointing for all your small-town needs. It’s kind of nice to have a bank handy,” said Boyce.

While Denning acknowledged there is some hope a credit union might take up residence in West Lorne, nothing has been confirmed.

In the meantime, those seeking an in-person BMO banking experience will have to drive to Glencoe.

“For us, it takes 20 minutes to get there now, so I don’t like it,” said customer Renald Begin.

Even though she’s approaching 84, and a cancer fighter, Eagleson said she plans to make the commute, “I’ll be going to Glencoe.”

As she does, she’ll feel for those, including other seniors and farmers, who might find the drive too much of a challenge or inconvenience.

“I think it’s terrible for other people, but I just haven’t allowed myself to get all upset about it,” said Eagleson.

BMO officials did not respond to three requests for interviews with CTV News London to answer questions about the closure.

They later sent a prepared statement, which, in part, said the bank, “will ensure clients can transition smoothly,” to other branches in its network.