AN SNP MSP has written to the chief executive of TSB to ask them to reconsider their decision to close the Savings Bank Museum in Ruthwell.

Emma Harper, who represents South Scotland, urged the banking group to keep the building open for local people and visitors.

She also said positive discussions were held at a meeting with TSB and with the Clarencefield and Ruthwell Community Council.

Last week, TSB announced the visitor attraction will close and move the collection, with the exception of some local newspaper clips, to its head office in Edinburgh but TSB have now said that decisions will be made on the future of the museum through stakeholders.

Harper said: “TSB have now stated that no further action will be taken without discussions with stakeholders. I welcome this, but remain clear I support the communities calls for the Savings Bank Museum to remain open as a valuable historical asset with pride of place in Dumfries and Galloway.”

Harper has raised the closure of the museum with the Scottish Government, Dumfries and Galloway Council and through a cross party motion to the Scottish Parliament.