The challenger bank has invited local residents and businesses to celebrate the milestone with two days of festivities.

The seven-day-a-week store and drive-thru will provide customers with the ability to bank at their own convenience.

Customers will have the opportunity to do their banking from the comfort of their car, with the drive-thru offering standard cashier services, including paying-in cash and cheques and withdrawing funds.

Cllr Mohammad Ayub, the mayor of Luton, said: “I am delighted with the arrival of Metro Bank in Luton.

“The fact that around 25 staff have been recruited locally is another boost to the town and proof that our ambitious £1.5bn Luton Investment Framework is attracting business of all types.

“As we continue to develop skills and training within our community, I am confident others will be able to take advantage of the sort of opportunities organisations such as Metro Bank provide.”

Iain Kirkpatrick, managing director of retail banking at Metro Bank, added: “We're thrilled to be bringing a brand new store to Luton and this time, another one of our drive-thru banks – not something you see other high street banks providing.

“Whether you're a parent with a car full of kids, find it difficult getting about or just want to shelter from the weather, our drive-thrus have proved popular with a range of customers.”