The opening yesterday in Britain of the first bank in more than 100 years is in stark contrast to the situation in this country where one retail bank has closed, another is due to close, and other banks are closing branches.

Additionally, last year the First Active brand disappeared as the bank closed down and its customers transferred to Ulster Bank.

But Metro Bank opened its doors to customers yesterday -- hoping to break into a sector whose reputation has been damaged by the credit crisis.

A steady stream of customers were greeted with an array of gimmicks. Not only does the bank welcome dogs, it provided them with free biscuits and offered their owners breakfast.

"We're in the business of turning customers into fans," American billionaire and Metro Bank co-founder Vernon Hill said, accompanied by his own pet dog Duffy.

Metro Bank aims to have more than 200 branches across greater London over the next decade.

It also hopes to end up with a business evenly split between retail and commercial banking, offering a range of services including a Metro Bank-branded credit card.

The new bank plans to open seven days a week, opening from 8am to 8pm on week days, and claims new customers will be able to open an account in just 15 minutes. It is one of several entrants planning to enter the UK market.