Changeing Bank after 20 plus years!

[condor]

Today I got a letter from RBS saying that my local branch which I've had for well over 20 years is now going to be bought by Santander. The process will take approx a year, but all RBS's in England and the Nat Wests in Scotland have been bought by Santander.
Last month I received a letter from RBS to say that my interest paying current account will ( with one months notice) not pay interest any more, and will be renamed as a current account. Presumably this was a requirement for the Santander sale.

In my town(Bedford)there are already 2 Santander branches ( one an ex Alliance and Leicester, the other an ex Bradford and Bingley)and I can't see their being enough custom for a 3rd branch! Even though I have an ISA with them, Santander has a very poor record on customer service and so not one I would like to deal with on a day to day type basis.


I know that First Direct get a lot of plus votes, though I don't want to be reliant on internet banking, I prefer going into a branch ( although Post Office banking might be a better option). So my question is what are the best alternatives?

Thanks

[condor]

Thanks I'm well aware that Santander have a very poor reputation...that's why I want to leave before they take over. I'll give Lloyds a look.

[worsy]

Using First Direct you can visit HSBC. You can however conduct most of your business, including applying for a loan/mortgage/accounts etc on the phone. Even Xmas day if you are so inclined.