The branch reaffirmed its promise to stay in the town - at least until 2028 Picture: Nationwide

“We’re here to stay”: Celebrating 50 years of Wimborne Nationwide

Tait ap EllisDecember 20, 20240 Comment0

THE Wimborne branch of Nationwide is celebrating its 50th year of serving customers on the High Street.

The branch, which laid its roots in the town in 1974 when it first opened as the Ramsbury building society, has been at the same spot on the square since it first opened.

The building society has stood strong for 50 years in the town, and it has confirmed it has extended its ‘branch promise’ to ensure everywhere there is a branch of Nationwide, it will stay open “until at least the start of 2028”.

Vikki Slade, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, visited the Wimborne branch to meet with branch manager Robert Wakefield-Coombes.

She toured the branch to see first hand how the team supports the community.

Nationwide branch team and Vikki Slade MP Picture: Nationwide

The visit is part of a week of celebrations, following a party held on December 11 with the mayor and Wimborne Business Improvement District.

The cofounders of Dorset Children’s Foundation attended the celebration after the branch raised £525 for the charity in a raffle.

Safe spaces at Nationwide

Mr Wakefield-Coombes and Ms Slade also discussed the newly introduced Safe Spaces initiative available in the branch, offering free support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse.

The initiative, launched by domestic abuse charity Hestia, offers anyone who asks access to a private room with support to deal with domestic abuse – including access to a phone if they need one and the chance to contact family, friends or specialist support.

Dorset Children’s Foundation receiving the cheque Picture: Nationwide

Safe Spaces has launched in over 400 Nationwide branches across the UK.

Robert Wakefield-Coombes, branch manager at Nationwide in Wimborne, said: “It was wonderful to meet our new MP Vikki Slade face to face in the branch as part of a week of celebrations for our fifty-year anniversary.

“Banking branches are so important for the local community, including for people needing additional support through our new safe space.

“Branch service is for everyone and we’re here to stay.”