Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron has said that the decline in free-to-use cashpoints in Argyll and Bute is a major worry to local businesses and residents.

Mr Cameron spoke after new figures from Which? revealed that the number of ATM's which can be accessed for no charge has declined from 83 to 74 between January 2018 and May 2019.

He said: “This is a steep decline over a short period and will affect residents across Argyll and Bute. Given this is also an area which depends on tourism to generate income and employment, it’s concerning that visitors might not be able to readily access cash when travelling around Argyll and Bute.

“I know that it is a real issue for businesses in our area who require easy access to cash for themselves and their customers, and I am particularly troubled that 3 of the 9 losses are reported to have been in deprived neighbourhoods.

“We now need to see a joined-up approach from the banks and regulators to turn this worrying trend round.”