BANKS in two Borders towns have shut their doors for the final time.

Bank of Scotland announced in March that its Innerleithen branch was among those earmarked for closure.

The site was permanently shut on Thursday, August 4, with the Selkirk branch meeting the same fate this week.

Lloyds Banking Group said the decision was made due to fewer customers visiting branches as online banking becomes increasingly popular.

The news was met with defiance from the community and a petition was launched to save the Innerleithen High Street bank.

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But Tweeddale MP said Bank of Scotland chiefs were “hell-bent” on closing the branch following a meeting in March.

Signage and the external ATM is now set to be removed at both sites after council planning bosses gave the green light for the work.

In a council report on the Innerleithen bank, Stuart Small said: “Bank of Scotland are to vacate the property, so redundant fittings are to be removed. The holes left by the signage will be infilled in lime mortar designed to match the stonework as closely as possible. In place of the ATM which is placed within the existing window a new timber window frame will be fitted. None of these fixtures are historic features, and their removal can only benefit the frontage.

“The special architectural interest of the building and the character and appearance of the Conservation Area will be enhanced, particularly since the applicants are taking the responsible steps to infill holes. A condition is recommended to ensure the works are carried out reasonably soon after the removals.”