NEW research has revealed the average Briton estimates it’s been one year and 10 months since they last stepped into a bank branch for any reason.

Furthermore, the majority of those polled had never written a cheque and were more likely to phone their bank or communicate any issues via social media rather than speak to someone face-to-face in branch.

The study also found 85% of participants prefered to phone their bank or send them a message via social media instead of going into a branch if anything is wrong.

Website VoucherCodesPro.co.uk conducted the poll as part of ongoing research into how Britons prefer to deal with their finances alongside new technological advancements.

When asked their thoughts on bank branches, 65% feel they’re more directed towards the elderly, 55% believe they’ll disappear from the high-street within the next 10 to 15 years, and a further 30% think the next generation will have no need for local branches at all.

George Charles, spokesman for Vouchercodespro.co.uk, said: “It’s a harsh reality that one day there’s going to be no need for actual cash.

"Think about it; the majority of shopping these days is either done online or, in the very least, paid for by card.

"Carrying cash just isn’t the most popular method these days.

"Whilst there will forever be a need for banks, we may not see local branches on our high street in five, 10 or 20 years’ time.”