Isles MP Angus MacNeil is continuing to press the Bank of Scotland to retain Lochmaddy and Tarbert branches to prevent long journeys to access alternative branches.

Lloyds Banking Group, who own the Bank of Scotland, announced recently that a decision had been taken to close the branches.

Commenting Mr MacNeil said:

“The closure of these branches will adversely affect Bank of Scotland customers especially those who are not able to use online banking services or do not have access to private transport.

“I have recently been contacted by constituents in North Uist who are concerned that the Lochmaddy branch is going to close. Customers living in Berneray, who do not have private transport, will have to make a 60-mile return trip by bus to access the bank in Benbecula.

“The Bank of Scotland has listed the Portree branch along with the Benbecula and Stornoway branch, as an alternative branch for customers. It is crass to suggest that customers should take a ferry to access a bank.

“I urge that the Bank of Scotland reconsider the decision to close the branches in Lochmaddy and Tarbert to ensure that my constituents continue to have access to the full range of banking services without the requirement to make lengthy travel journeys.”