Metro Bank has announced its opening in Brighton with a celebration of dancing dogs and stilt walkers. 

The newcomer bank’s rapid expansion will continue with the launch of its 33rd store in North Street on Friday, February 20.

Customers will be looked after by a team led by local director Brian Quinton, formerly of Clydesdale and NatWest.

An array of grand opening festivities will include stilt walkers, face painting, performing dogs and live music.

Dogs are welcome in the branch, and unlike any other UK bank, Metro Bank provide instant printing and replacements for lost or stolen debit cards, free coin counting for customers and non-customers alike and, safe deposit boxes for customers’ valuables.

The bank offers face-to-face in-store services, a 24-hour local contact centre, mobile and online banking.

Its pioneering approach led to it being awarded the Technology Innovation Award by Microsoft as part of the Microsoft Dynamics Customer Excellence Awards Programme.

Councillor Jason Kitcat, Leader Brighton and Hove City Council, said: "I am delighted to welcome Metro Bank, a brand new bank, to this high profile location in Brighton.

"This opening has been highly anticipated by the local community. I very much welcome the new services and jobs Metro Bank will be bringing to Brighton."

Kevin Walker, Regional Director of Metro Bank, said: “We are thrilled to be opening our Brighton store and being part of such an exciting and admirable community.

"Our role is to make banking simple and convenient to all our customers and we’re delighted to bring the people of Brighton a bank that is dedicated to providing amazing service and convenience.

"We look forward to welcoming both personal and business customers to the Banking Revolution.”

All Metro Bank stores are open at the most convenient times for local residents and businesses; 8am - 8pm Monday – Friday, 8am – 6pm Saturday and 11am – 5pm Sundays and bank holidays, 362 days a year.