Metro Bank has opened its first store in Wales.

The store, which is situated in Cardiff, will also deliver a free financial education programme to schools and youth groups.

The bank says that the store will have an estimated 3,000 safe deposit boxes for both customers and non-customers.

Furthermore, the lender adds that it has developed its own Welsh Language Charter and is dedicated to serving Welsh speaking customers.

Metro Bank managing director of retail and business banking Ian Walters says: “We are thrilled to be opening our first store in Wales and to become part of the local community in Cardiff.

“Metro Bank will provide the people of Cardiff with the very best in service and convenience as we open the first of our two stores in the city. We are dedicated to serving Welsh and English-speaking customers with a banking experience like no other.”

Welsh Language Commissioner Aled Roberts adds: “We use banking services all the time in our everyday lives, so ensuring that more and more of these services are available in Welsh is key to my work.

“Our business team have been working with Metro Bank to help them develop their Welsh language offer. It is great that Metro Bank has shown such enthusiasm to use the Welsh language within their stores in Wales and we shall look forward to continuing with discussions as they establish themselves.”