And finally… Scottish town runs out of cash in first weekend without a bank

Bank of Scotland closed its branch and machine in Lossiemouth, Moray, last week, leaving almost 8,000 residents dependent on two machines.

According to The Times newspaper, both ran out of money over the weekend, forcing some customers to make token supermarket purchases so that they could claim cashback.

Four branches have closed in Lossiemouth in recent years as banks abandon the rural northeast.

Warnings have since been issued explaining that the lack of cash could hit small businesses such as taxis and takeaways.

Denise Bedson, secretary of Lossiemouth Business Association, said: “A lot of small businesses can’t afford card facilities. We’re not at the point yet where we can do away with cash. In Lossie, it’s probably still years away.”

James Allan, a councillor, described the situation at the weekend as shocking. “People not having access to cash is hurting businesses,” he said.