Nationwide should be ashamed of itself for proposing the closure of Gorsehill and Old Town branches. This breaches its promises made when it merged with Portman several years ago.

The promises Nationwide made regarding the merger were, and I quote: "Nationwide will continue to be a mutual building society, owned by you and run for your benefit; provide you with access to a larger network of branches and agencies - over 880 locations across the UK - improving access to our products and services". It also promised to "champion consumer issues and offer a compelling alternative to the big retail banks".

I think it is wrong for a building society to close the Gorsehill and Old Town branches just so that it can save money and refurnish another.

Surely if decisions on closures have to be made, the members of the society need to be consulted - particularly if the society "is owned and run for our benefit".

I have been with Nationwide for more than 30 years - and with Anglia Building Society before Nationwide took over. I regularly use the Gorsehill branch. The staff there are smashing; cheerful and so helpful.

Mr Blaylock is a star for petitioning outside the Old Town branch. If I had the time I would stand outside the Gorsehill branch handing out flyers highlighting Nationwide's promises to its members.

There are also many older people who use the Gorsehill branch in Cricklade Road. A journey to the town centre or Pipers Way would be a problem for the less mobile.

JOSIE LEWIS Morstone Road Wootton Bassett