MORE pressure has been heaped on the Royal Bank of Scotland’s (RBS) decision to close its branches in Cumnock and Mauchline.

MSP Brian Whittle is the latest to call for a meeting with the bank’s chiefs after it confirmed so-called ‘TechXperts’ will be sent to the branches to move more customers to online banking.

This comes in spite of the fact that almost half of RBS customers in the well-used branches either don’t or can’t use online banking.

The Conservative MSP had written to RBS head of UK public affairs Michael Crow to also emphasise the serious impact on elderly and disabled customers.

In their reply, RBS also confirmed there will be offering a mobile van service in Cumnock but the exact details are still to be worked out.

Mr Whittle said: “I’m not satisfied that RBS understand the impact this decision will have on many people across South Scotland and the alternatives being offered simply don’t stack up. I appreciate that RBS are making attempts to help people understand digital banking but that won’t help those who simply don’t deal with computers.

“Banking at the Post Office may suit some people carrying out basic transactions but it’s a very different environment and experience between that and a purpose built branch.

“I will now be seeking a meeting with RBS to discuss these closures.”