THE Royal Bank of Scotland in Peebles will remain open, despite the company closing six Borders branches.

Bosses have confirmed that Melrose, Selkirk, Jedburgh, Hawick, Duns and Eyemouth will all be hit – which could cost up to 30 jobs.

But the Eastgate branch will not be affected.

The news to close six bases in the region has been met by anger by local politicians.

David Mundell, MP for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale said: "I am very disappointed to hear of the plans by the Royal Bank of Scotland to close so many of their branches across Scotland. 

"This is a serious issue for the communities they serve.

"While usage of branches may have dropped, they are still a lifeline for many people, especially in rural areas.

"I'll be seeking a meeting with the senior leadership of RBS to discuss these closures as a matter of urgency."

Fellow Conservative John Lamont also expressed his disappointment.

The MP for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk said: "I’ve spoken to senior management to express my deep disappointment about this news.

"It is hard not to come to the conclusion that RBS simply does not care about its customers in rural Scotland.

“We’ve now had nine RBS branches close in recent years and many people will be asking when this will stop.

"These plans effectively mean RBS is set to withdraw from the Scottish Borders."

It is believed between 25 and 30 staff will be affected by the closures in the Borders.

And it will mean only Kelso, Galashiels and Peebles will have RBS branches in the region for local customers to use.

Rachael Hamilton MSP added: “This is a hugely disappointing news and will hit high streets in the Borders hard.

“This will damage footfall and put extra strain on local business as a result, let alone RBS customers who will now have to face significant journeys to Kelso or Galashiels if they want to visit their nearest branch.

“I hope RBS will reconsider these closures, and are not left bemoaning its decision when further investment comes to the Borders.”