LLOYDS Bank in Cirencester has unexpectedly closed after high levels of potentially dangerous gas radon was detected.
Customers have been left out in the cold after hearing the branch on Castle Street will be shut for at least a week.
Contractors were seen carrying ventilation equipment into the bank on Castle Street this morning as the branch carries out remediation work.
Radon is an odourless, colourless natural gas which seeps into homes from the ground. Long term exposure to the gas can lead to lung cancer and it is estimated that each year about 1,000 people across the UK die from a radon linked lung cancer.
Lloyds Cirencester manager Nigel Heppleston said there is no risk associated with levels of exposure to the gas and once the branch reopens, there will be no health risks to customers of staff.
"We apologise for the inconvenience cause," said Mr Heppleston. "Customers can visit local branches in Tetbury, Cricklade, Fairford and Malmesbury or transact through telephone banking."
The Fairford Lloyds branch will be extending its opening hours to fully cater for stranded Cirencester customers. It will also be opening this Saturday.
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