TSB branches across the country had to shut when protesters took action against the bank’s buy-to-let mortgage policy.

About 100 marchers in Brighton caused disruption, while in Bristol, two branches were occupied.

Tents were put up outside a branch in Leeds and in Tottenham, North London, protesters built a mini cardboard city,

Up to 30 branches were affected by the protests.

TSB gives out a buy-to-let mortgage only if the borrower agrees to give tenants contracts of no more than 12 months.

Housing action group Acorn says this means renters have to put their lives on hold.

It is calling on the bank to change its policy so there is no limit on the lengths of its buy-to-let tenancy contracts.

It claims this would protect renters from no-fault evictions and rent rises.

Eleesha Taylor-Barrett, from Acorn, said: “Renters need stability and security.”