Local MSP Rachael Hamilton has raised the scandal of bank branch closures in small towns during a debate in the Scottish Parliament.
In the speech at Holyrood, she highlighted the recent news that the Bank of Scotland branch in Hawick will close.
The debate was brought forward by Scottish Conservative MSP Craig Hoy.
Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton said: "Big banks have treated good customers in the Borders very poorly over the past decade.
"Closing branches is a severe blow to local residents, especially elderly and vulnerable people who may struggle to use alternative services.
"Given the rise of sophisticated fraud scams, in-person banking services are as vital as ever.
"Small businesses also rely on access to cash, yet they are being overlooked by banks.
"I will continue to campaign for a bigger network of banking hubs and more cash machines to help improve the situation."
