Pensioner launches crusade to save local bank branch in protest with OAP pals
Evelyn Atkins was backed by dozens of supporters when she held a demonstration outside her Bank of Scotland branch in Moffat, Dumfriesshire.
A Scots pensioner who launched a one-woman crusade to save her local bank amid a string of crippling closures has staged a protest.
Retired bank worker Evelyn Atkins, 76, was backed by dozens of supporters when she held a demonstration outside her Bank of Scotland branch in Moffat, Dumfriesshire, after confirmation it was to be shut down - making the nearest bank more than 20 miles away.
The OAP had already gathered thousands of signatures for a petition and written a heartfelt open letter to banking chiefs pleading with them to keep the branch open - saying she fears more elderly people will fall victim to financial scammers as a result.
Branches in 14 towns across the country - including Annan, Moffat, Peebles, Thornhill and Sanquhar - were earmarked to shut this year or early in 2026.
Evelyn is furious that for many of Moffat's older citizens, a trip to the nearest branch in Dumfries would take three hours by bus.
On Friday, she was joined by around 30 protesters, largely pensioners, after complaining that closures were creating a digital banking divide with older people struggling to get to grips with online systems.
In her letter to bank chiefs she wrote: 'This is a generation that were not brought up with computer skills.
'Mentally, we slow down in our senior years with many facing the onset of dementia.
'The reliance on younger members of the family, friends and others will erode their financial independence and leave them open to scams and fraud.
'These members of our community require face to face contact and the assurance that can only come from well-trained efficient staff.'
The Moffat branch is set to close in November this year.
Bank of Scotland has said it will introduce Community Bankers in six locations, in addition to those already helping in other communities, to provide targeted banking support where a branch is closing.
A Bank of Scotland spokeswoman said: 'As many customers now choose to bank through their app or online, visits to our Moffat branch have fallen over recent years.
"The local Post Office offers everyday banking, with cash also available at close by free-to-use ATMs. Customers can also manage their money through our mobile banking apps, online, by calling us or speaking to a Community Banker.'
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At the end of February, police were called after a group of around 40 protestors took part in a demonstration in an attempt to halt the closure of the last remaining bank in Barrhead, East Renfrewshire.
Andrew Bartlett, CEO of Advice Direct Scotland, said: 'Bank branch closures hit communities hard especially older people who depend on in-person services.
"People need inclusive, accessible financial solutions that work for everyone in the digital age.
"To stay financially secure, check your accounts regularly, set up fraud alerts and use strong, unique passwords.
"Be scam-smart - meaning stay informed and always double-check before making financial decisions. If you're worried or need help, our expert team is always here for you."
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